Property Damage Restoration: Water Damage, Fire & Smoke Damage, Mold Remediation, Flood

My Response to Cablevision Editorial: Brookhaven Town Supervisor Mark Lesko's "Blight into Light"

2010-05-24T08:49:00.001-04:00

Dear Supervisor Mark Lesko,

I have just finished reading the Cablevision Editorial on your "Blight into Light" project for the Town of Brookhaven. Let me commend you on a great idea and the amazing job you have done in only a short time in office. I hope other town leaders follow you down the path of sustainability sooner rather than later.

My only concern with your plan is what are you going to do with the old homes and buildings? How are they going to be removed? The "Blight into Light" project is great for the revitalization of these neighborhoods and the Long Island community but I feel there will be a blight on the "Blight into Light" projects if current demolition practices are used to remove the old structures from these communities.

Traditional bulldozer style demolition hurts the very Long Island Community that you are trying to revitalize. Buildings, like everything, have a life-cycle. When a building is no longer fit for use and has to come down, does this happen just as all of its parts and components wear out? Most old buildings have some systems and building materials with useful lives. The trick is efficiently identifying the materials and getting them out of the building. When redeveloping a Long Island property, it is difficult to see the old buildings as anything but obstacles. Also, it is important to consider whether their contents and/or components may actually be resources that have net value.

Current demolition practices are not sustainable. They are also not in the best interest of Long Island and our environment. They hurt our community by over-burdening our already fragile landfills with valuable building materials that are not at the end of their life cycles just because the homes and buildings they make up are. Those same building materials can benefit a fellow Long Islander who might not be able to afford brand new building materials.

Building Deconstruction and Building Material Reuse on Long Island is the systematic dismantlement of building materials and building components, specifically for re-use, recycling, and waste management. It differs from demolition where a site is cleared of its building materials by the most expedient means and a majority of the demolished materials are hauled to a landfill for disposal. Building Deconstruction is new by name, but not by practice, as the recovery and reuse of building materials in order to build new structures is as old as buildings themselves. Reuse of materials might be considered one of the "original" green building techniques, along with the use of local materials. In the pre-industrial era, building material conservation was driven by the high intensity of the labor effort required to harvest and prepare them. Reuse of materials provided an economic advantage. In the mid-to-late 20th century, the emergence of machine-made and mass-produced materials, chemically complicated materials, and the relatively low cost of oil allowed this basic idea of "waste not, want not" to fall from usage in the creation of built environment.

We live in a different world now. The cost of oil is out of control and puts a heavy burden on some Long Island families who have to pay the increasing gas prices. And there is no end in sight to our dependence on foreign oil. Dumping fees are continually going to rise. Especially as the number of landfills decrease because of capacity issues and remediation is needed on the sites that are still in use. The reusable building materials from your "Blight into Light" projects could be worth a significant tax write-off when donated to a not-for-profit organization on Long Island like The ReUse People (TRP) and receive a tax-deductible receipt to help offset the overall cost of the "Blight to Light" projects. These services are among the first steps in the green building process and provide a faster payback and better return-on-investment than any other product or service offered by the green building industry on Long Island.

The ReUse People and their Long Island TRP-Certified Building Deconstruction contractor, Advanced Restoration Corporation, aim is to recycle or reclaim for reuse up to 80% of the structure rather than dumping the materials into Long Island landfills for the next generation of Long Islanders to deal with.

I truly believe Sarah Lansdale, the Executive Director of Sustainable Long Island, when she said, "With the attention and focused resources provided by elected officials such as Supervisor Lesko, we can revitalize our communities and ensure that Long Island is prosperous and beautiful for generations to come." Please Supervisor Lesko I implore you, don't leave a blight on the "Blight into Light" projects, choose building deconstruction and building material reuse over current demolition practices and help me turn it into a force for the sustainable development and future of Long Island.

Advanced Restoration Corporation is proud to partner with The Reuse People (TRP) on all our Building Deconstruction projects to make the Long Island Community the Leader in Building Deconstruction and Building Material Reuse in New York and throughout the country.

2010 Hurricane Season Forecast

2010-05-02T15:06:00.000-04:00

The 2010 Hurricane Season in the Atlantic Ocean will begin on June 1, 2010, and end on November 30, 2010. Atlantic hurricanes affect the eastern and Gulf coasts of the U.S. and the Caribbean nations. Those with interests in hurricane-prone areas must heed federal and state advice on preparedness, the season in general, and each specific storm in the season.

Latest 2010 Hurricane Forecast Predictions:

An Above-Average Hurricane Season

Advanced Restoration Receives a 2009 Constant Contact All Star Award

2010-04-23T16:10:00.000-04:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Constant Contact recognizes Advanced Restoration Corporation for commitment to best practices in email marketing.

West Babylon, New York - April 23, 2010 - Advanced Restoration Corporation, today announced that it has received a 2009 All-Star Award from Constant Contact®, Inc., a leading provider of email marketing, event marketing, and online survey tools for small organizations. Advanced Restoration Corporation was selected for meeting Constant Contact's best-practice standards for the use of Email Marketing throughout 2009.

"Constant Contact provides an excellent marketing resource that allows Advanced Restoration the ability to effectively communicate with our clients," said Gary Matzelle, Marketing Director, Advanced Restoration Corporation. "The marketing tools provided by Constant Contact have helped to build and reinforce our company's brand and image."

Advanced Restoration received a 2009 Constant Contact All-Star Award for demonstrating best practices in the effective use of Constant Contact Email Marketing in the following areas:

*Frequency of campaigns
*Open rates
*Bounce rates
*Click through rates

"Our customers work hard to build strong relationships with their customers through email marketing and some, such as Advanced Restoration Corporation, truly excel in this effort," said Gail Goodman, CEO, Constant Contact. "We created our All-Star Awards to highlight those customers who are passionately committed to following our best practices as they work to improve their customer communications. We're proud of the role we play in helping Advanced Restoration be successful and we look forward to continuing to assist the company with its marketing efforts."

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About Constant Contact, Inc.
With more than 350,000 customers, Constant Contact, Inc. is a leading provider of email marketing, event marketing, and online surveys for small businesses, nonprofits, and member associations. Founded in 1995, Constant Contact helps small organizations grow stronger customer relationships by delivering professional, low cost, easy-to-use online tools backed with award-winning support, education and personal coaching. Constant Contact is a publicly traded company (Nasdaq: CTCT) with offices located in Waltham, Mass.; Loveland, Colo.; and Delray, Fla. To learn more, please visit http://www.constantcontact.com/ or call 781-472-8100.

About Advanced Restoration Corporation
As a preferred vendor for multiple insurance companies, Advanced Restoration Corporation is a leading service provider in the property damage restoration industry. With a combined 75 years experience, Advanced Restoration is a family-owned and operated disaster response/property damage restoration company specializing in fire and smoke damage, water damage and mold remediation. Advanced Restoration services Long Island and the New York Metro area. To learn more, please visit http://www.advancedrestoration.com/ or call (800) 693-6263.

Media Contact
Gary Matzelle
Advanced Restoration Corporation
(800) 693-6263
Email: gmatzelle@advancedrestoration.com

Rosalind MorvilleConstant Contact
(339) 222-5772
Email: rmorville@constantcontact.com

Storm Damage: What to Do After a Loss

2010-03-22T15:40:00.000-04:00

Heavy rains and winds recently pummeled the New York Metro area, causing major damage to many homes and businesses. If you experienced property damage, you need to know what to do after a loss.

If you suffer a loss, the first thing to do is to notify your insurance company or its agent. You can do this by telephone, although it is a good idea to follow up with written notification. Remember, if you give the notice to your broker, rather than directly to the insurance company, you still have a responsibility to make sure that the insurance company receives notice of your claim.

It is also important to notify your insurance company promptly after any incident takes place that might result in a claim at some later date, even though no claim was made at the time the event occurred.

For example, if your dog bites a neighbor or a guest falls on your property, it should be reported to the insurance company even though you don't know whether any claim is actually going to be made against you. Your failure to notify the company promptly might allow it to deny coverage in the event a claim if filed against you at a later date.

It is also important to protect your property against further damages. For example, if the windows are broken, have them boarded up to protect against further vandalism or burglary. The cost of this type of protection is covered by, and would be reimbursed by your insurance company.

However, no permanent repairs should be made until your company or its representative has inspected the property. The company has the right to inspect the property in its damaged state, and can refuse to pay you for any damage that is repaired before inspection.

An adjuster will be sent from your insurance company to examine the damage and give you an estimate of the cost of repairs or replacement. You should also get an estimate from your own contractor to compare with the insurance company's estimate. Your contractor will probably charge a fee for this service but might credit that fee to your bill if you hire that contractor to repair and/or replace your property.

If you need assistance, your agent, broker or insurance company sales representative should help you fill out the claim form and help gather the materials you need to substantiate your loss.

In the event you are unfortunate enough to experience a major loss such as a fire or severe windstorm which has badly damaged or destroyed your home, and you are not in a position to negotiate a settlement with your company, you may want to consult an attorney or call a licensed public adjuster to act on your behalf with your insurance company.

Public adjusters are licensed by the Insurance Department. They represent you and not the insurance company. They will help you in taking inventory of your loss, securing your home from vandalism, contacting your insurance company, advising you on the extent of your coverage and help you secure the services needed to repair or rebuild you home. They will negotiate on your behalf with the adjuster from the insurance company.

A public adjuster may not charge a fee more than 12.5% of the recovery amount and must get a signed compensation agreement from you in which the amount of compensation is clearly stated. Such agreement may be cancelled up to midnight of the third business day after the date on which you have signed the compensation agreement. In addition, public adjusters may not solicit your business between the hours of 6 p.m. and 8 a.m.

Another alternative to consider when an agreement cannot be reached between you and your insurance company is the appraisal process. Every homeowner, tenant, cooperative apartment and condominium policy issued in New York contains a provision whereby you and your company select a competent and disinterested appraiser. The two appraisers, in turn, select an umpire. Each appraiser must evaluate the loss and determine the value of each item. Any disagreements between the appraisers regarding the value of any items are submitted to, and settled by the umpire. The costs of this process are paid by the policyholder and the insurance company.

Source: NY State Insurance Department

Ice Dams and Damage to Your Home

2010-01-28T10:28:00.000-05:00

Whenever there is snow, you are likely to have troublesome ice dams to follow. Ice dams can cause major water damage and flooding to your home, which requires immediate attention.

As winter advances through cycles of freezing and thawing, buildings and homes experience ice buildup and roof damage. In general, ice dams are formed when attic heat moves up to warm the roof and melts snow at or near the ridge. Snow melts, runs downward and hits the edge of the cold roof, resulting in re-freezing snow. These cycles cause ice to accumulate and back up under shingles. Damage appears in the form of soaked insulation, stained, cracked and damaged sheet rock, damp, smelly, rotting wall cavities and stained, blistered and peeling paint.

Read more...

Wind Damage to Your Home: New York Wind Advisory

2009-12-29T14:34:00.000-05:00

Heavy winds are pounding Long Island today and the National Weather Service has issued a Wind Advisory for parts of New York.

During a severe storm or a hurricane, homes may be damaged or destroyed by high winds. Debris can break windows and doors, allowing high winds inside the home. In extreme storms, the force of the wind alone can cause weak places in your home to fail.

Some helpful tips regarding wind damage and preparing for storms are listed below:

The Roof
During a windstorm, the force of the wind pushes against the outside of your home. That force is passed along from your roof to the exterior walls and finally to the foundation. Homes can be damaged or destroyed when the energy from the wind is not properly transferred to the ground. The first thing you should do is determine what type of roof you have. Homes with gabled roofs are more likely to suffer damage during a hurricane. A gabled roof looks like an A on the ends,with the outside wall going to the top of the roof. The end wall of a home with a gabled roof takes a beating during a hurricane or wind storm, and those that are not properly braced can collapse, causing major damage to the roof.

Exterior Doors and Windows
The exterior walls, doors, and windows are the protective shell of your home. If your home's protective shell is broken, high winds can enter and put pressure on your roof and walls, causing damage. You can protect your home by strengthening the doors and windows.

Double Entry Doors
Most double doors have an active and an inactive or fixed door . Check to see how the fixed door is secured at the top and bottom. The bolts or pins that secure most doors are not strong enough. Some door manufacturers provide reinforcing bolt kits made specifically for their doors. Check with your local building supplies retailer to findout what type of bolt system will work for your door.

Double-wide Garage Doors
Double-wide (two-car) garage doors can pose a problem during storms because they are so large that they wobble as the high winds blow and can pull out of their tracks or collapse from wind pressure. If garage doors fail, high winds can enter your home through the garage and blow out doors, windows, walls, and even the roof.

Check the track on your garage door. With both hands, grab a section of each track and see if it is loose or if it can be twisted. If so, a stronger track should be installed.

Storm Shutters
Installing storm shutters over all exposed windows and other glass surfaces is one of the easiest and most effective ways to protect your home. You should cover all windows, French doors, sliding glass doors, and skylights. There are many types of manufactured storm shutters available. For more information on manufactured shutters, check with your local building supplies retailer. If you install manufactured shutters, follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully.

The recommendations discussed here are not intended to replace local building code requirements or to serve as the only options for protecting your home from hurricane wind damage. For more information on protecting your home from hurricane wind damage, contact your local building official; your local building supply retailer; or a building professional.

Advanced Restoration is a property damage restoration company that is trained and ready to respond to any disaster situation, including wind damage to your home or business. We are a preferred vendor for many insurance carriers and have been serving Long Island and the NY Metro area for 20 years.

Do you have a property damage situation you need help with?

Call us today at (800) 693-6263!

Ten Tips to Keep Your Holiday Home Fire and Injury Free

2009-12-15T14:43:00.000-05:00

Source: USCPSC

Fires Lead the List of Hazards Related to Holiday Decorating

WASHINGTON, D.C.- As the holiday season approaches, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is urging consumers to make safety a factor in holiday decorating. Whether it is careful candle placement or checking the warning label on the holiday lights, simple safety steps can go a long way in preventing fires and injuries this year.

Annually, during the two months surrounding the holiday season, more than 14,000 people are treated in hospital emergency rooms due to injuries related to holiday decorating. In addition, Christmas trees are involved in hundreds of fires resulting in an average of 15 deaths and $13 million dollars in property damage annually. Candle-related fires lead the list of hazards averaging more than 12,000 a year, resulting in 150 deaths and $393 million in property damage.

“Holiday decorating-related fires and injuries most often involve defective holiday lights, unattended candles and dried-out Christmas trees,” said CPSC Chairman Inez Tenenbaum. “We are providing this list of 10 simple safety steps to help keep your holiday home safe.”

Use the following ten safety tips when decorating this year:

Trees and Decorations

When purchasing an artificial tree, DO look for the label "Fire Resistant." Although this label does not mean the tree won't catch fire, it does indicate the tree is more resistant to catching fire.

When purchasing a live tree, DO check for freshness. A fresh tree is green, needles are hard to pull from branches and do not break when bent between your fingers. The bottom of a fresh tree is sticky with resin, and when tapped on the ground, the tree should not lose many needles.

When setting up a tree at home, DO place it away from heat sources such as fireplaces, vents, and radiators. Because heated rooms dry out live trees rapidly, be sure to monitor water levels and keep the stand filled with water. Place the tree out of the way of traffic, and do not block doorways.

In homes with small children, DO take special care to avoid sharp, weighted or breakable decorations, keep trimmings with small removable parts out of the reach of children who could swallow or inhale small pieces, and avoid trimmings that resemble candy or food that may tempt a child to eat them.

Lights
Indoors or outside, DO use only lights that have been tested for safety by a nationally-recognized testing laboratory, such as UL or ETL/ITSNA.

Check each set of lights, new or old, for broken or cracked sockets, frayed or bare wires, or loose connections. Throw out damaged sets. DON’T use electric lights on a metallic tree.

If using an extension cord, DO make sure it is rated for the intended use.

When using lights outdoors, DO check labels to be sure the lights have been certified for outdoor use and only plug them into a ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) protected receptacle or a portable GFCI.

Candles

Keep burning candles within sight. DO extinguish all candles before you go to bed, leave the room or leave the house.

DO keep lighted candles away from items that can catch fire and burn easily, such as trees, other evergreens, decorations, curtains and furniture.

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Intense Kitchen Fire Video-Must See!

2009-12-04T14:47:00.004-05:00

Controlling Oil Fires...
Kitchen fires always increase around the holiday season. This video shows how a wet dishcloth can be a "one size fits all" lid to cover a fire in a pan! This is an eye opener... it demonstrates how to deal with a common kitchen fire ...oil in a frying pan.
Fire Fighting Training schools demonstrate this with a deep fat fryer set on fire fields. An instructor would put on a fire suit and using an 8 oz cup at the end of a 10-foot pole, toss water onto the grease fire. The results got the attention of the students. The water, being heavier than oil, sinks to the bottom where it instantly becomes superheated.

The explosive force of the steam blows the burning oil up and out. On the open field, it became a thirty foot high fireball that resembled a nuclear blast.

Inside the confines of a kitchen, the fire ball hits the ceiling and fills the entire room. Also, do not throw sugar or flour on a grease fire. One cup of either creates the explosive force of two sticks of dynamite.

This is a powerful message----watch the video and don't forget what you see.

See video:

Tell your whole family about this video. Or better yet, send this to them.
__________________________________________________________________
Advanced Restoration Corporation is a family-owned and operated full-service property damage restoration company with a combined 75 years experience in dealing with Fire Damage Restoration, Water Damage Restoration, Flood & Storm Damage, Mold Remediation, Smoke Damage Restoration and Reconstruction. We service Long Island (Nassau County, NY; Suffolk County, NY) and the New York Metro area.

When disasters strike, Advanced Restoration is ready to respond 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Completeing Your Dream Home with the FHA 203K Loan!

2009-11-20T10:52:00.003-05:00

Another challenge with the existing home inventory on the market is the condition of the property. Whether it is REOs, foreclosures, short sales, or not, less people are presenting homes for sale in pristine condition.

The FHA 203k loan can help. The 203k can give the buyer the ability to have one loan to purchase and renovate their home at the same time.

Similar to a traditional mortgage with a construction loan added on top, the 203k can be used for the following:

Remodeling bathrooms and kitchens (even built-in appliances)
Replacing a roof, gutters and downspouts
Adding a second story, afamily room,another bath, etc.
Completing a basement or attic
Upgrading plumbing, heating, air conditioning or electrical service
Installing new siding, energy efficient windows and doors
AND MUCH MORE!

It is important to hire a general contractor that is familiar with the 203k process and requirements. Advanced Restoration Corporation, a 203k contractor, was recently featured on NBC News4 New York regarding 203k loans, along with Continental Home Loans.

For more information on 203k loans in New York, please contact the following:

203k Contractor:
Company: Advanced Restoration Corporation
Contact: Gary Matzelle
Phone: (516) 903-4107
Email: gmatzelle@advancedrestoration.com

Mortgage Banker:
Company: Continental Home Loans
Contact: Robert Flower
Phone: (917) 584-9292
Email: rflower@cccmtg.com

Looking for REO/Foreclosures?
The REO People
Thomas Becker (Licensed Real Estate Salesperson)
Phone: (631) 873-8150
Email: tomsellinghomes@aol.com

Time to Light the Fireplace!

2009-11-16T14:54:00.000-05:00

The holidays are just around the corner, and that means families will be entertaining around their fireplaces.

Fire safety is a primary ingredient to enjoying the holiday season. Some firepalce tips include:

Installation & Use

•Check the fireplace to make sure it complies with
the local building codes.
•Use protective devices like glass doors or a screen
which stops sparks.

•Install a removable cap on the chimney.

•Avoid using flammable liquids or garbage to start a fire.

•Clean out all flammable materials near the fireplace.

•Use only seasoned hardwood and approved fire tools.
Cleaning

•Make sure the previous ashes are cleaned out before starting a fire.

•Use non-combustible containers to remove ashes and remove immediately from the home.

•Fireplaces require annual inspections and cleaning by a certified chimney sweep.

•Regular maintenance is needed to remove obstructions and creosote.
Safety

•Only close the damper when the fire has completely gone out.

•Never leave a fire burning unattended.

Green Drinks Babylon Next Event

2009-11-10T14:16:00.000-05:00

Participate. Educate. Connect.

The next Green Drinks Babylon Event will be held on November 17th, 2009 at Horace and Sylvia's Publick House from 5:30pm to 8:30pm. There will be a $5 donation at the door.

Green Drinks Babylon is a monthly gathering of like-minded individuals committed to shaping our future and making Long Island a greener community. Come out and charge your eco-spirit and make some new connections.

We have a lively mixture of people from NGOs, academia, government and business from all over Long Island. Come along and you'll be made welcome. Just ask, "Are you green?" and we will introduce you to whoever is there. It's a great way of catching up with people you know and also for making new contacts. Everyone invites someone else along, so there’s always a different crowd, making Green Drinks an organic, self-organising network. These events are very simple and unstructured, but many people have found employment, made friends, developed new ideas, done deals and had moments of serendipity.

Fall Maintenance Around Your Home

2009-11-03T09:36:00.003-05:00

Many areas have already had a taste of fall weather, and it’s not far behind for most others. Now is the time to make sure your house and heating system are ready for winter. Here is a brief checklist to guide you through some basic tasks before it is too late:

GROUNDS
Check window wells, dry wells and storm drains for debris or blockage.

Repair any driveway cracks and/or heaved or settled walkways.

Trim all trees and shrubs that are too close to the house.

Check (ideally during a rainstorm) for rainwater drainage away foundation.

Clean and put summer furnishings away.

Drain and store garden hoses.

EXTERIOR SURFACES
Check weathertightness of all exterior surfaces and components.

Check for deterioration of painted or finished areas. If too late for a full paint job, prime and touch-up bare wood surfaces.

Caulk and seal all joints in siding, around windows and doors.

Check and seal any foundation cracks.

Improve weatherstripping at exterior doors and windows as needed.

Reset storms and screens where required.

Look for any signs of insect or pest activity around the foundation and at wood components close to the ground.

ROOF (Use binoculars or hire a professional.)
Check for loose, damaged or missing roofing.

Check eave areas for signs of moisture build-up or damage.

Check the condition of chimneys.

Check flashings for signs of lifting or damage and repair as needed.

Check and clean all gutters (eavestroughs) and downspouts.

ATTIC
Check ventilation openings for nests or other blockage.

Check the position and condition of insulation for uniform coverage.

Look for any signs of excessive moisture or heat buildup.

INTERIOR ROOMS
Check all areas for signs of roof or plumbing leakage.

Have any fireplaces or wood stoves and flues checked and professionally cleaned.

Reset automatic timers for the change in daylight hours.

Check all smoke/carbon monoxide detectors. Replace batteries if over a year old.

Test Ground-Fault Circuit-Interrupters (GFCI’s) using built-in test buttons.

HEATING/COOLING SYSTEMS
Clean all elements of the cooling system.

Remove (or winterize) room air conditioners.

Follow manufacturer instructions for the maintenance of your heating system.

Change or clean heating system filters on warm air systems (now and regularly).

Check heating and cooling systems for any evidence of water leaks.

If present, clean and test the humidifier.

Have your heating system serviced annually by a qualified heating serviceperson before the heating season to keep it functioning efficiently and properly.

PLUMBING
Drain exterior water lines and open taps (in cold areas).

Insulate water lines that are subject to freezing.

Check the condition and temperature setting of the water heater. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for the temperature setting.

Check the plumbing system and fixtures for any evidence of water leaks or blocked drains.

Confirm proper operation of any sump pumps and free flow of the drain line.

Remember, these tips are only general guidelines. Since each situation is different, contact a professional if you have questions about a specific issue. More home safety and maintenance information is available online at http://www.longisland.housemaster.com/ or contact Matthew Kaplan at (800) 805-1122.
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Advanced Restoration Corporation is a family-owned and operated full-service property damage restoration company with a combined 75 years experience in dealing with Fire Damage Restoration, Water Damage Restoration, Flood & Storm Damage, Mold Remediation, Smoke Damage Restoration and Reconstruction. We service Long Island (Nassau County, NY; Suffolk County, NY) and the New York Metro area.

When disasters strike, Advanced Restoration is ready to respond 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Common Origins of Fire Damage

2009-10-23T08:21:00.004-04:00

Fire Starters

Fires have their origins and are classified accordingly. Like any other kind of manmade disaster they have a starting point. The following are the most common starting points of fire along with some description of how they generally start:

Electrical – fires that originate from this source are due to overblown fuses and short circuits that throw spark. Frayed wires which overheat in time make combustion possible. Improper wire connections within the house structure must be promptly corrected. Many fires that come from an electrical source do not emit any flame at first to show that fire is present. But a smoke coming from any electrical source should not be taken lightly because of the fact that electrically originated fires are not known to cause a full blown flame.

Candles – candles are normally used when electric power is out and during special occasions. To be on the safe side, trim the candle’s wick once it gets too long making the flame too large. Remove any flammable material like paper, linen, etc that may be caught by the flame. Always position the candle at a safe distance from wind blown curtains, and use appropriate candle holders that will hold the candle upright to prevent it from toppling and causing a fire. Be sure to put off any lighted candles before going to sleep.

Smoking – it is better not to smoke inside the house, but if you do then make sure to use ashtrays and to put out the cigarette before you retire to sleep or rest. Also make it a habit to throw your unlit cigarette butts into proper waste receptacles to avoid littering.

Cleanup and Restoration

In case of a fire disaster, most residential owners due to the lack of any financial resources may want to do the cleaning and restoration procedures by themselves along with the other family members. While this may sound practical and cost saving, the truth is you are facing a very daunting task of cleaning up the mess and restoring the house to its pre-fire disaster condition, consequently spending more money than expected.

It would also entail an unnecessary length of time to accomplish the task because you do not have the appropriate tools, equipment and gear necessary to do the job efficiently and properly. It is commonly suggested that an expert or professional fire damage cleaner is hired to do the job. For at least they have the experience, the knowledge, correct equipment and adequate manpower to engage with the after effects of the fire. Just make sure that the professional fire damage cleaner you hire has all the legal documents and certificates to prove that they can do the task of proper cleaning and restoration.

Fire may be inevitable but with the steps and tips above, it can be prevented or at least, damages may be mitigated.

Source: Restoration Resource
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Advanced Restoration is a preferred service provider for insurance companies and services the New York Metro area. Emergency Service.... (800) 693-6263.

Protect Yourself From Water Damage and Floods

2009-10-16T12:59:00.003-04:00

Source: Federal Alliance for Safe Homes

Floods are one of the most powerful, deadly, and destructive natural disasters.

There are a number of relatively inexpensive steps you can take to protect your home and property before a flood strikes.

If you are building or retrofitting your home consider these recommendations:

Elevate your home

Consider wet flood proofing An example of wet flood proofing is installing flood vents that create permanent openings in the foundations walls so water can flow through the structure.
Dry flood proofing prevents floodwaters from entering the building. Install new brick veneer over asphalt coating and apply polyethylene film over existing walls.
Construct non-supporting, break-a-way walls designed to collapse under the force of water without causing damage to the house or its foundation.

Additional Recommendations

Here are some additional recommendations to protect your home from floods. Some are simple and inexpensive; others require a professional contractor.

Locate the main electric panel and elevate all electric outlets, switches, light sockets, baseboard heaters and wiring at least 12" above the projected flood elevation. In areas that could get wet, connect all receptacles to a GFI circuit to avoid the risk of shock or electrocution. Have electrical wiring done by a licensed electrician.
Elevate the furnace, water heater, washer and dryer, outside air conditioning compressor, heat pump or package unit at least 12" on a base of masonry, concrete or pressure treated lumber.
Anchor fuel tanks securely to the floor. Make sure vents and fill line openings are above projected flood levels.
Install a floating floor drain plug at the current drain location. If the floor drain backs up, the float will rise and plug the drain. Also have a licensed plumber install an interior or exterior backflow valve to prevent floodwater causing sewage to back up and enter your home. As a last resort, use large corks or stoppers to plug showers, tubs or basins.

Get Flood Insurance

One of the most important things you can do to protect your home and family before a flood is to purchase a federal flood insurance policy. But don't wait until a flood is coming. It normally takes 30 days after purchase for flood insurance to go into effect.

Have flooding or water damage that requires immediate response?

Advanced Restoration staff is On-Call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to respond to your water damage/flood situation. We understand that the sudden intrusion of water is not something that anyone can be totally prepared for. You will always talk to one of our knowledgeable, caring team members, day or night. If we are unable to assist you, we will offer you our best professional advice. At Advanced Restoration, we pride ourselves on immediate response to all types of water damage situations. Our coverage area includes Nassau and Suffolk County, NY and the NY boroughs. Call Us at (800) 693-6263.

FHA 203k Loans Featured on NBC News4 New York!

2009-10-09T09:50:00.003-04:00

NBC Reporter Lynda Baquero and

Gary Matzelle from Advanced Restoration Corp.

On Monday, October 5th, NBC News4 New York featured a story on FHA 203k loans. The parties interviewed included Advanced Restoration Corporation, Continental Home Loans and a homeowner from Suffolk County, New York.

The homeowner in this story utilized the 203k loan program to renovate a home (located in Medford, New York) which needed $74,000 in repairs/restoration. The Section 203(k) program is HUD's (Housing and Urban Development) primary program for the rehabilitation and repair of single family properties.

With a 203k loan, the borrower can get just one mortgage loan, at a long-term fixed (or adjustable) rate, to finance both the acquisition and the rehabilitation of the property. To provide funds for the rehabilitation, the mortgage amount is based on the projected value of the property with the work completed, taking into account the cost of the work.

VIDEO: To view this story, please click here.

For more information on FHA 203k loans in New York, please contact:

Advanced Restoration Corporation (203k Contractor):
Gary Matzelle at (w) (800) 693-6263; (c) (516) 903-4107,
or email Gary at: gmatzelle@advancedrestoration.com

Continental Home Loans (FHA Approved Lender):
Wendy Doerzbacher at (w) (631) 390-6176; (c) 516 982-6339,
or email Wendy at: wendyd@cccmtg.com

Why Renovate With a 203K Streamlined Loan?

2009-09-28T13:19:00.000-04:00

Because You Can!

I'll keep this very brief...

You are purchasing a home that needs minor repairs (repairs under $35,000 qualify for a streamlined loan). Incorporating the rehab into your mortgage payment allows you to have just one payment. Some highlights include:

Loan amounts up to 110% of the home's appraised value; renovation amounts up to $35,000.
No work write-up, no inspection required if repairs are less than $15,000 and no HUD consultant required.
There is no longer a minimum of $5,000 in repairs for a 203K Streamline.
On a 203K Streamline, up to 50% of the rehab amount can be requested immediately following the closing. After closing the work can start.
For a 203K Streamline, there is a maximum of 2 draws per contractor.
Loan can be used for many improvements, including repair/replacement of: roofs, plumbing, electrical, flooring, minor remodeling, windows, doors, etc.
Available for mortgage refinance transactions including those where the property is owned free and clear.

203K Streamlined Loans are available through HUD approved lenders. For more information on how Advanced Restoration can be your 203k contractor, please contact Gary Matzelle at (516) 903-4107.

From the White House to the Green House

2009-09-25T15:17:00.001-04:00

From the White House to the Green House

Shared via AddThis

Chimney Fire Safety In Your Home

2009-09-18T11:53:00.002-04:00

Source: NY State Office of Fire Prevention & Control

Chimney maintenance for wood burning appliances.

Chimneys are one of the most common locations of residential structure fires in New
York State. The Chimney Safety Institute of America reports that creosote accumulation is the leading cause of chimney fires.

A chimney that is dirty, blocked or is in disrepair can inhibit proper venting of smoke up the flue and can also cause a chimney fire. Nearly all residential fires originating in the chimney are preventable.

An annual chimney inspection by a qualified chimney sweep can prevent fire or carbon monoxide poisoning.

To keep your home safe from chimney fires follow these guidelines.

Maintenance - Good maintenance is a very important step in preventing chimney fires!

• Have your chimney checked every year by a qualified chimney professional.

• Burn only well seasoned hardwoods.

• Install a chimney cap.

• Install a carbon monoxide detector.

• Have your chimney sweep ensure that your chimney has an appropriate liner.

• Following a violent storm, earthquake, flood or lightening strike, have your chimney inspected for damage - inside and out.

Prevention - Remember prevention is your best defense against fire.

If you have a wood or coal stove, be sure it is installed at least 36 inches away from the wall. Keep combustible materials well away from the stove and chimney connector. Place an approved stove board under the unit to protect the floor from heat and hot coals which might drop out.

Be Prepared - Know what to do in case of fire. If you suspect a chimney fire, evacuate your home and call 9-1-1
___________________________________________
Advanced Restoration Corporation is a family-owned and operated full-service property damage restoration company with a combined 75 years experience in dealing with Fire Damage Restoration, Water Damage Restoration, Flood & Storm Damage, Mold Remediation, Smoke Damage Restoration and Reconstruction. We service Long Island (Nassau County, NY; Suffolk County, NY) and the New York Metro area.

When disasters strike, Advanced Restoration is ready to respond 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
You are guaranteed to speak with one of our knowledgeable, caring team members, day or night. Our immediate response to a claim/property loss helps minimize the damages to the structure, contents, and ease the sometime catastrophic effect that a disaster may have on an owner or occupants.

USGBC Wants an Environmental Label for Every Building

2009-09-16T16:20:00.001-04:00

USGBC Wants an Environmental Label for Every Building

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Green Drinks Babylon

2009-09-13T13:03:00.005-04:00

A Force for the Sustainable Development and Future of Long Island.

Green Drinks Babylon is a monthly gathering of like-minded individuals committed to shaping our future and making Long Island a greener community. Come out and charge your eco-spirit and make some new connections.

Our 1st meeting is on Oct 14th, 2009 @ Horace & Sylvia's Publick House in Babylon, NY.

Signup for Free@ Green Drinks Babylon

For more info email me @ emartin@advancedrestoration.com

We have a lively mixture of people from NGOs, academia, government and business. Come along and you'll be made welcome. Just say, "are you green?" and we will look after you and introduce you to whoever is there. It's a great way of catching up with people you know and also for making new contacts. Everyone invites someone else along, so there’s always a different crowd, making Green Drinks an organic, self-organising network.

These events are very simple and unstructured, but many people have found employment, made friends, developed new ideas, done deals and had moments of serendipity. It's a force for the good and future of Long Island.

Find us on FaceBook.

Basement Flooding/Heavy Rains in NY

2009-09-11T16:25:00.011-04:00

Source: Institute for Business & Home Safety

Heavy rains are pounding Long Island today, which will cause flooding throughout Nassau and Suffolk counties.

Basement flooding can be a problem in some homes, and there are steps to take to minimize potential damage. But since a flooded basement can result from a number of things, there is no single method for prevention. The most important things are to determine:

1) When is the basement flooding?

Does the basement flood every year at approximately the same time?
Does the basement flood during random intervals?

2) Where is the basement flooding?
If water is entering near the top of the wall in one location:
-An improperly sloped landscape angled toward the house could be the cause.
-Extend and re-direct the downspouts.
-Reshape the landscaping around the foundation of the home.

Inspect the location where water is entering:
Caulk any cracks on the interior.

If the entire wall is damp or water is entering through multiple wall surfaces, this may be a sign of a faulty or missing water proofing membrane.

Remove soil around the foundation.

Hire a licensed contractor to install a waterproofing membrane.

Consider applying an internal sealant that can be painted on interior surface of basement walls:

This is not an option for finished basement walls.

These products require constant maintenance or they will stop working.
If the water appears to be entering the home near the foundation or through a floor drain:

French Drainage

One solution is to install a “French Drainage” system around the perimeter of the home or at least in areas subject to frequent flooding.
-Remove the soil around the perimeter of the home.
-Waterproof the foundation wall with a waterproofing membrane.
-Install a French Drain at the base of the foundation:
-Ensure that the drain has a method for diverting the water.
-The drain should empty into the primary storm drainage system, a retention pond or other source.
-Backfill the area with gravel to provide adequate drainage.
-Install a sump pump with a battery backup:
-This requires demolition of a portion of the basement floor.

To be effective, the sump pump needs to be hooked up to a drainage system, usually installed around the perimeter of the basement foundation, or at least in areas subject to repeated flooding.
Because this is installed at the perimeter of the foundation, the flooring in this area will also face demolition to install the drainage system.

Sump pumps should be tested at least once a year, preferably in the early spring.

Test the system if a storm is approaching.
Make sure the sump pit does not contain any debris that will clog the sump’s inlet pipe.

Pour water into the sump pit until the sump turns on (about 5 gallons of water).
If the sump does not turn on contact a professional to diagnose the problem.

Advanced Restoration Corporation is a family-owned and operated full-service property damage restoration company with a combined 75 years experience in dealing with Fire Damage Restoration, Water Damage Restoration, Flood & Storm Damage, Mold Remediation, Smoke Damage Restoration and Reconstruction. We service Long Island (Nassau County, NY; Suffolk County, NY) and the New York Metro area.

When disasters strike, Advanced Restoration is ready to respond 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You are guaranteed to speak with one of our knowledgeable, caring team members, day or night. Our immediate response to a claim/property loss helps minimize the damages to the structure, contents, and ease the sometime catastrophic effect that a disaster may have on an owner or occupants. Please call us with any questions at (800)693-6263.

Ineligible 203k Streamlined Repairs

2009-09-02T15:09:00.009-04:00

What items remain ineligible for the Streamlined (k) program?

FHA's Streamlined 203(k) program permits homebuyers to finance up to an additional $35,000 into their mortgage to improve or upgrade their home before move-in. With this product, homebuyers can quickly and easily tap into cash to pay for property repairs or improvements, such as those identified by a home inspector or FHA appraiser.

A question that has consistently come up over the past few weeks has been related to 203k streamlined repair exclusions.

Per HUDs' Mortgagee letter 2005-50, the following information will help identify what is not covered if you are applying for a 203k Streamlined loan.

Properties that require the following work items are not eligible for financing under the Streamlined 203(k) program:
· Major rehabilitation or major remodeling, such as the relocation of a load-bearing wall;
· New construction (including room additions);
· Repair of structural damage;
· Repairs requiring detailed drawings or architectural exhibits;
· Landscaping or similar site amenity improvements;
· Any repair or improvement requiring a work schedule longer than six (6) months; or
· Rehabilitation activities that require more than two (2) payments per specialized contractor.

Mortgagors may not use the Streamlined (k) program to finance any required repairs arising from the appraisal that do not appear on the list of Streamlined (k) Eligible Work Items or that would:

· Necessitate a “consultant” to develop a “Specification of Repairs/Work Write-Up”;
· Require plans or architectural exhibits;
· Require a plan reviewer;
· Require more than six months to complete;
· Result in work not starting within 30 days after loan closing;
· Cause the mortgagor to be displaced from the property for more than 30 days during the time the rehabilitation work is being conducted. (FHA anticipates that, in a typical case, the mortgagor would be able to occupy the property after mortgage loan closing).

______________________________________

Advanced Restoration Corporation is a full-service restoration contractor with the ability and 203(k) knowledge to provide complete Rehabilitation & Restoration services to your new home!

For more information about 203(k) loans and partnering with Advanced Restoration, please contact Gary Matzelle at (516) 903-4107.

Disaster Kleenup International Is Hurricane Ready!

2009-08-20T08:42:00.009-04:00

Disaster Kleenup International, North America's largest disaster restoration contracting organization is fully prepared to assist in hurricane preparation and disaster planning for the possible U.S. landfall of Hurricane Bill. Bill became the first hurricane of the season on Monday morning.

To aid with storm preparation, DKI has created an informational website, ww.hurricanecatastrophe.com.

The site, created in the wake of previous major hurricanes, offers numerous tips for property owners and managers on how to prepare weeks and months before a storm hits, what to do when a storm is identified as being on a path to potentially affect one's property, and how to protect one's own personal safety. The website also assists property owners and managers in taking inventory of their situation after the storm has left, and identifies sources of appropriate relief.

Additionally, there are helpful links to aid agencies and other resources, such as FEMA, the American Red Cross, and DKI, that can deliver necessary aid. In addition to the information on the website, DKI also has a 24-hour call center available to assist property owners who require emergency services. DKI's national catastrophe response unit maintains the industry's largest inventory of emergency services equipment and the largest labor pool in the U.S.

For those seeking to prepare before a storm, DKI also works collaboratively with property owners and managers to develop pre-disaster plans to further mitigate the costs of future catastrophes. For more information on DKI, visit www.hurricanecatastrophe.com, or contact our national account team at: 1.877.354.3566. To request emergency services in the wake of a disaster, call the DKI's Immediate Response Line 24 hours a day, 365 days a year at 1.888.735.0800. For a DKI member company in the New York Metro area, call Advanced Restoration Corporation at (800) 693-6263.

Advanced Restoration Corporation is located on Long Island. They are a full-service property damage restoration company with a combined 75 years experience in dealing with Fire Damage Restoration, Water Damage Restoration, Flood & Storm Damage, Mold Remediation, Smoke Damage Restoration and Reconstruction. Their service area includes Long Island (Nassau County, NY; Suffolk County, NY) and the New York Metro area.

When disasters strike, Advanced Restoration is ready to respond 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Their immediate response to a claim/property loss helps minimize the damages to the structure, contents, and ease the sometime catastrophic effect that a disaster may have on an owner or occupants.

Advanced Restoration is a preferred service provider for
insurance companies and real estate professionals.

For Emergency Service, call (800) 693-6263.

Rehab Your Foreclosure with a 203k Loan!

2009-08-19T16:05:00.014-04:00

You are thinking about buying a home foreclosure on Long Island, but the properties you are looking at need serious rehabilitation.

What Can You Do?

You may want to apply for an FHA 203(k) restoration loan through an approved lender!

The purchase of a house that needs repair is often a catch-22 situation, because the bank won't lend the money to buy the house until the repairs are complete, and the repairs can't be done until the house has been purchased.

HUD's 203(k) program can help you overcome this obstacle by enabling you to purchase or refinance a property plus the cost of making the repairs and improvements in one mortgage. The FHA-insured 203(k) loan is provided through approved lenders nationwide and is available to persons wanting to occupy the home.

The downpayment requirement for an owner-occupant (or a nonprofit organization or government agency) is approximately 3.5% of the acquisition and repair costs of the property.

The 203(k) loan includes the following steps:

A potential homebuyer locates a fixer-upper and executes a sales contract after doing a feasibility analysis of the property with his/her real estate professional. The contract should state that the buyer is seeking a 203(k) loan and that the contract is contingent on loan approval based on additional required repairs by the FHA or the lender.

The homebuyer then selects an FHA-approved 203(k) lender and arranges for a detailed proposal showing the scope of work to be done, including a detailed cost estimate on each repair or improvement of the project.

The appraisal is performed to determine the value of the property after renovation.

If the borrower passes the lender's credit-worthiness test, the loan closes for an amount that will cover the purchase or refinance cost of the property, the remodeling costs and the allowable closing costs. The amount of the loan will also include a contingency reserve of 10% to 20% of the total remodeling costs and is used to cover any extra work not included in the original proposal.

At closing, the seller of the property is paid off and the remaining funds are put in an escrow account to pay for the repairs and improvements during the rehabilitation period.

The mortgage payments and remodeling begin after the loan closes. The borrower can decide to have up to six mortgage payments (PITI) put into the cost of rehabilitation if the property is not going to be occupied during construction, but it cannot exceed the length of time it is estimated to complete the rehab.

Escrowed funds are released to the contractor during construction through a series of draw requests for completed work. To ensure completion of the job, 10% of each draw is held back; this money is paid after the lender determines their will be no liens on the property. It is essential for a borrower to select a general contractor (restoration company) that is familiar with the 203k loan process, including the required forms and documents.

Streamlined 203k Loan

FHA's Streamlined 203(k) program permits homebuyers to finance up to an additional $35,000 into their mortgage to improve or upgrade their home before move-in. With this new product, homebuyers can quickly and easily tap into cash to pay for property repairs or improvements, such as those identified by a home inspector or FHA appraiser.

___________________________________________________________

Advanced Restoration Corporation is a full-service property restoration contractor with the ability and 203(k) knowledge to provide complete Rehabilitation & Restoration services to your new home or refinance! We service the New York Metro area (Nassau County, Suffolk County and the NY Boroughs).

For more information about 203(k) loans and mortgage professionals authorized to generate FHA 203(k) loans, please contact Gary Matzelle at (516) 903-4107.

Homelite, Husky and Black Max Generators Recalled Due to Fire Hazard

2009-08-14T16:19:00.004-04:00

Homelite, Husky and Black Max Generators Recalled Due to Fire Hazard; Sold Exclusively at Home Depot and Sam’s Club Stores

Another fire hazard recall was just released by the USCPSC...

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of Product: Homelite, Husky and Black Max Brand Generators

Units: About 51,750

Distributor: Homelite Consumer Products Inc., of Anderson, S.C.

Hazard: The fuel gauge can leak excessive amounts of gasoline, posing a fire hazard to consumers.

Incidents/Injuries: None reported.

Description: This recall involves Homelite and Husky brand generators sold exclusively at Home Depot stores and Black Max brand generators sold exclusively at Sam’s Club stores. Affected generators include Homelite models HG3500, HG3510, HG5700 and HG5700R, Husky models HU3650, HUCA5700 and HUCA7000 and Black Max models BM10700A, BM10700B, BM10711A, BM10700DG, BM10700R, BM10700BR & BM10722G.

Generators included in this recall have manufacturing date codes between BML306-BMM151, CHL122-CHM151 and CRL153-CRM059. The model number and manufacturing date code are included on the data label located on the top or side of the generator engine. Products with a green “dot” on the outside of the package or a “silver dot” on the fuel gauge face are not included in the recall.

For more information, please click here.

____________________________________________________________

Advanced Restoration is a full service property damage restoration company located in Suffolk County, New York. Our professional staff is experienced in dealing with Fire Damage Restoration, Water Damage Restoration, Flood & Storm Damage, Mold Remediation, Smoke Damage Restoration and Reconstruction.

When Disaster Strikes...Advanced Restoration Responds!

2009-08-11T10:46:00.010-04:00

Disasters can happen when you least expect it...

In late June, 2009 a vehicle crashed into a building in Deer Park, NY. The Suffolk County Police, Deer Park Fire Department and other public agencies responded within minutes.

The driver of a Buick Eighty-Eight sedan was injured after the car was involved in an accident in which it struck a smoke shop. The car hit the Kristy Smoke Shop on Deer Park Avenue, and the driver was taken to Good Samaritan Hospital Medical Center by the Deer Park Fire Department Ambulance with unknown injuries, and there were no injuries to anyone in the store.

Also responding to the scene within minutes was Advanced Restoration Corporation. Advanced Restoration staff had the primary responsibility to immediately secure the building and partner with local officials, ensuring the structural integrity of the building.

Advanced Restoration staff also worked closely with the tenant of the building, the insured and the insurance company to mitigate damages and take the appropriate action to begin the restoration process.

This video depicts Advanced Restoration's actions associated with restoring this building back to "normal", allowing the business owner to re-open the smoke shop in a timely manner.

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To find out more information on how you can partner with Advanced Restoration, call us at (800) 693-6263, or visit us on the web at www.AdvancedRestoration.com.

Advanced Restoration: Water Problem Solvers

2009-08-05T09:33:00.022-04:00

Advanced Restoration Corporation is a full service property damage restoration company located in New York (Long Island). Recently, our company was hired by a client that was referred to us via an insurance agent to resolve a perplexing water damage situation.

The Problem?
Our client's basement was recently flooded after very heavy rains hit Long Island. The customer had previously asked numerous restoration/plumbers/water proofing companies to come and locate the source of the water (which may be an issue with insurance coverage). None of the companies contacted by the client were able to find where the water intrusion was coming from. Advanced Restoration subsequently received a call from the agent/client asking for help.

The Solution
Advanced Restoration's Eric Martin immediately responded with two Senior Structural Estimators to the site to review the situation and find the source of the water intrusion. After a comprehensive assessment of the situation, they located the water source in 20 minutes!

Advanced Restoration staff determined there was a broken pipe in a sewer drain, in the parking lot, which caused water to enter through the chimney and into their basement storage area. By finding the source, Advanced Restoration proved that it was not "seepage" and the insurance company now had to cover the damages to the basement/property structure. Our client was extremely satisfied with our services, as well as the insurance agent for our experience, professionalism and expertise.

As a full service restoration company, Advanced Restoration is ready to respond to all aspects of
a disaster situation, including fire and smoke damage, water/flood damage, mold and structural damage. For more information, call (800) 693-6263, or visit us on the web at

http://www.advancedrestoration.com/.

Help Us Help You!

Protect Your Home When Disaster Strikes!

2009-08-04T08:30:00.009-04:00

TOP 5 WAYS TO PROTECT HOMES FROM HURRICANES

The Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) has outlined five ways to better protect homes from damaging wind and rain this hurricane season:

1. Shutter all openings

2. Secure loose roof shingles

3. Seal openings, cracks and holes

4. Strengthen soffits

5. Survey surroundings

1-Shutter all openingsThe most important thing you can do to improve the chance your home will survive a hurricane is to protect all windows and doors. The range of products on the market today means it’s easier to find protection that fits your budget. Whatever you choose, make sure the product has the proper approvals for wind pressure and large-missile impact. If it’s not a permanent product, install permanent fasteners ahead of time so installation is easier when storms threaten. Gable end vents can be shuttered as if they were a window. Garage door companies have bracing systems available for about $400 that should work for most door styles.

2-Secure loose roof shinglesKeeping shingles attached is critical. If the edge shingles are not well fastened or extend beyond the drip edge more than a 1/4”, high wind can lift them off and create a peeling process or domino effect. If they come up without much effort (older shingles become brittle and may crack when bent too much), secure them with three one-inch dabs of roofing cement under each tab.

3-Seal openings, cracks and holesWater can invade homes in a number of ways, especially when it’s being blown horizontally. The problem is compounded if there’s a loss of power and air conditioners or dehumidifiers are unable to dry things out. Fill holes where wires, cables and pipes enter and exit the house and seal around electrical boxes and circuit breaker panels. Seal cracks around wall outlets, dryer vents, bathroom and kitchen vents, and wall lights.

4-Strengthen soffits (the material covering the underside of your roof overhang)Keeping soffits in place can help keep water out of your house. Some have wood supports but the soffit material is not adequately fastened to the wood or there is no wood backing and the vinyl or aluminum channels are stapled or nailed to the wall. If there are wood supports, secure soffit material with sharp-pointed stainless steel screws. If the channels are just nailed to the wall, you can use polyurethane caulk to seal the channel to the wall and tie the parts together.

5-Survey surroundings and limit potential flying debrisLimiting possible sources of wind-borne debris before a storm will help protect your home and those around you. Replace gravel/rock landscaping materials with shredded bark. Limit yard objects. Keep trees and shrubbery trimmed. Cut weak branches.

For more information http://www.disastersafety.org/.

_________________________________________________

Knowing who to call for help when your company's Business Continuity Plan gets activated is just as important as having a disaster plan. At Advanced Restoration, we understand that an unforeseen event impacting a property structure can be devastating to the occupants of the structure.

That is why we offer our Emergency Response Partnership Plan (ERPP). When a property loss occurs, valuable time is usually lost from when the situation occurred to the subsequent time taken by occupants to determine how to proceed, or who to call. Having a plan in place saves crucial time, valuable belongings, and minimizes business disruption! Contact us for more information at (800) 693-6263, or visit us on the web at www.AdvancedRestoration.com.

Drowning in Water Damage?

2009-07-27T10:49:00.017-04:00

Another wet weekend in New York and water is seeping into your basement! Heavy rain is just one way you may get wet when you least expect it.

Water damage arises from fire damage, broken pipes, blocked drains, malfunctioning appliances, storms and other causes. The appropriate treatment on the nature of the damage. Some water carries contaminents and should be considered hazardous.

Whatever the origin, the prospects for restoration depend largely on the speed with which your building/home and personal property can be dried. Even clean water can generate mildew and other bacterial growth if neglected.

Some "to do" tips to help you after water damage occurs:

Ensure you ventilate wet areas. Turn on air conditioning for accelerated drying in summer (if there is no visible mold)); in winter, alternate cycles of opened windows and heating.
Remove standing water from flat surfaces by sponging and blotting.
Take up saturated rugs and carpets when hardwood floors are at risk.
Stay out of rooms where ceilings are sagging from retained water.
Remove lamps, telephones and decorative items from wet furniture tops.
Open drawers and cabinet doors for interior drying, but do not force stuck drawers or doors.
Place aluminum foil squares, china saucers or wood blocks under furniture legs to avoid carpet staining.
As soon as possible, call a professional water damage specialist for emergency drying.

Do Not...

Operate televisions, vacuums, computers or other electrical appliances while standing on wet carpet or floors, especially wet concrete floors. Serious injury may result.
Use heat to dry closed building interiors, mildew and expanded moisture may result.

Leave wet fabrics in place; space them apart and dry as soon as possible.

_________________________________________________
24/7 Emergency Service
Advanced Restoration staff is On-Call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to respond to your water damage/flood situation. We understand that the sudden intrusion of water is not something that anyone can be totally prepared for. You will always talk to one of our knowledgeable, caring team members, day or night. If we are unable to assist you, we will offer you our best professional advice. At Advanced Restoration, we pride ourselves on immediate response to all types of water damage situations.

Advanced Restoration Corporation is a family-owned and operated full-service property damage restoration company with a combined 75 years experience in dealing with Fire Damage Restoration, Water Damage Restoration, Flood & Storm Damage, Mold Remediation, Smoke Damage Restoration and Reconstruction. We service Long Island (Nassau County, NY; Suffolk County, NY) and the New York Metro area.

When disasters strike, Advanced Restoration is ready to respond 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You are guaranteed to speak with one of our knowledgeable, caring team members, day or night. Our immediate response to a claim/property loss helps minimize the damages to the structure, contents, and ease the sometime catastrophic effect that a disaster may have on an owner or occupants.

203k Loans Made Simple? Yes, for Your Clients

2009-07-15T16:48:00.013-04:00

Excellent article on 203k loans...

Source: Colleen Craig
Santa Clarita, CA
More about Colleen…
Southern California Mortgage Professional
Office Phone: (661) 310-8536
Cell Phone: (661) 310-8536
Email Colleen

http://www.colleencraig.com

203k MADE SIMPLE?

Okay, maybe not, but I will attempt to make it as simple as possible for the client to understand and want to read on. For many of us in the business who are " in the know" we forget that we need to go back to the basics and spell it out in simple terms for others to understand. So I've compiled some information based on my most recent commonly asked questions just this week.

In Southern California, FHA loans were just not utilized over the past 10 or so years because of the FHA Maximum Mortgage limits But now that the limits have been increased and the prices have decreased, FHA loans have become the most utilized loan in recent months. HOWEVER, because it was not a popular loan, you would be amazed at how many lenders/brokers do not know what they are doing. Especially when it comes to the 203k loan. I spoke to a client today that was given such mis-information it made me cringe.

Apparently they told the client that 203k loans were no longer being done (Gee, you think it was after realizing that they had no idea what they were doing?) and they tried to flip them into another loan. This was after telling my client that their loan amount would be for the contract price and the extra money would just be separate and sit in an impound account to be disbursed over the next 6 months. Okay partially true, the extra amount would be in escrow to be disbursed as the remodel progressed, but for free? Who pays for the extra 50,000 dollars you just borrowed for repairs? Your loan amount is for the entire amount you are borrowing. Makes sense right?

So what is a 203k loan and why use one?
When a buyer wants to buy a home that needs repairs utilizing FHA financing, normally the repairs would have to be completed prior to the close of escrow. The repairs would normally fall on the responsibility of the seller. With so many foreclosures in today's market, the bank is the seller. And many times the home in need of repair is listed "as is". Which in the past would require a cash buyer or conventional financing. This is another reason that people in the business decided to shy away from FHA loans. I believe it was pure ignorance of the programs that were available by the brokers and the realtors couldn't properly prepare their seller for what to expect that gave FHA loans a bitter taste.

My associate Jeff Belonger said it best in his post about ignoring what your listing agent tells you about FHA loans

Here we go....203k loans for dummies

* 203k loans allow you to FINANCE the cost of the repairs in the new loan amount. (Not to exceed 110% of the after improved value determined by the appraiser and 203k consultant) What does this mean? I buy a house for 200,000 that needs 50,000 in repairs and I can borrow the extra 50,000? Too good to be true? NOPE. That's it in a nutshell....

details please.........

* Down payment is based on the sale price PLUS the final cost of the repairs x 3.5% so for example:
Sale price is 200,000 (DO not calculate 3.5% on this) PLUS 50,000 in repairs/costs (which includes certain costs and reserves the lender will require) 250,000 x 3.5%. Down payment is $8750.00 (closing costs are separate as usual)

* Buyer will hire (lender can recommend) a HUD approved FHA 203k Consultant to go to the property with the buyer to determine the required repairs and wish list repairs.
The fee charged by the consultant can be included in the mortgage. The fee can range anywhere between $ 400 to $1200 depending on the repairs required. Please check with the consultant prior to scheduling your appointment.

*Buyer will obtain estimates from several licensed contractors for the work to be completed depending on how extensive the repairs.

Three estimates are recommended for each contractor but not necessary. The buyer can act as their own general contractor only if experienced and licensed. (FHA says experienced, but most investors require the buyer to be licensed) The contractors must provide documentation to be approved by the lender prior to approval.

The consultant will determine the "required" repairs versus the "wish list repairs". You must start with the required repairs and then move on from there for you wish list. This is an important step for the consultant and appraiser so that you don't over improve the home and exceed the comparable properties in the area.

* Once the consultant completes his report of required and wish list repairs, the lender will forward it to the appraiser for an "After Improved Value". This is where you may run into problems with OVER improving the property based on current values. Between the consultant, appraiser and buyer - the FINAL FINAL report will be tweeked to come up with a final report that the contractors will be hired to do.

* So now the file is submitted to underwriting and approved ( you need to qualify at the full amount you are borrowing of course, which may include your current mortgage payment for the home you will live in during the rehab period) and the normal steps for closing will occur.
(BIG PLUS - you can include 6 months of mortgage payments in the new loan amount since it's assumed that you will have TWO housing payments during the rehabilitation of the new home. This money will be deducted each month during the reahab process) This is optional.
* Closing occurs, and the work begins within 30 days of closing/funding. (This is when your mortgage payments start since this is when you started borrowing the money - however, if you included the 6 mths mtg payments, they will be deducted from escrow starting when your first payment is due)

* Disbursements are made throughout the following 6 months from the escrow account (normally 4 draws with one final inspection, but this can be increased for higher repair amounts) as the work is completed.

Remember you paid the seller for the price of the home, and then you borrowed an additional amount of X which is sitting in an escrow account to pay the contractors (your total loan is the total amount you borrowed)

Once the last disbursement is made and the final inspection showing COMPLETED AS PER THE CONTRACT........you are done! Simple as 1 2 3 - okay maybe not, but that's why having an experienced lender on your side is crucial!

There are specific properties and repair requirements for this type of loan, so please call me for specific details if this sounds like the right loan for your new home.
Please send me your before and after pics! I would love to see them and maybe even post them for people to see what can be done with this awesome program! Or contact Colleen Craig FHA 203k Specialist for more details

Happy Rehabbing!

______________________________________________

Advanced Restoration Corporation is a full-service restoration contractor with the ability and 203(k) knowledge to provide complete Rehabilitation & Restoration services to your new home!

For more information about 203(k) loans and mortgage professionals authorized to generate FHA 203(k) loans, please contact Gary Matzelle at (516) 903-4107.

Who Will Be Open For Business if Disaster Strikes?

2009-07-10T16:12:00.008-04:00

Contact:Brenda O'Connor

(813) 675-1043

boconnor@ibhs.org

TAMPA – Large and small businesses alike are having a difficult time in the current economy and the Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) is concerned many may not be open for business if disaster strikes.

According to the Association of Contingency Planners, Business Continuity Awareness Week was June 21-27, and IBHS wants business owners and managers to take advantage of free resources that are available to create business continuity plans that can help keep operations running when the unexpected happens.

In addition to minimizing the impact of severe weather events or problems such as a water main break or regional power outage, business continuity planning requires a thorough assessment of operations, which often yields additional benefits including opportunities to streamline functions or identifying areas for cost reductions.

IBHS outlines the following five steps to begin safeguarding operations:

1. Record basic information for employees, ownership, suppliers, vendors and key contacts.
2. Identify critical business functions (i.e., what is required to maintain income, keep a competitive advantage, and meet regulatory or contractual obligations?).
3. Scout alternate locations (i.e., where is the best site to resume operations?).
4. List what is needed to fulfill critical business functions at an alternate location, including records, critical telephone numbers, e-mail addresses, equipment, machinery and vehicles.
5. Identify equipment and services that workers will need, such as computer equipment and software, voice and data communications, and required office supplies.

The IBHS Open for Business® suite of resources is available in multiple formats on DisasterSafety.org and includes worksheets and checklists to help with development of your plan. There also is an online training series for those who prefer being walked-through the process one step at a time, with an option for reminder e-mail messages to keep planning on track.

___________________________________________________

When disasters strike, Advanced Restoration is ready to respond 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You are guaranteed to speak with one of our knowledgeable, caring team members, day or night. Our immediate response to a claim/property loss helps minimize the damages to the structure, contents, and ease the sometime catastrophic effect that a disaster may have on an owner or occupants.

Own It...Then Make It Your Own

2009-07-02T14:32:00.007-04:00

Did you know that Wells Fargo Home Mortgage has a Purchase & Renovate Loan?

The program offers financing that enables you to immediately turn the house you just bought into the home you always wanted. Add a bath, cook up a new kitchen, repai, renovate or extend- all with a single loan at attractive first mortgage rates.

Built-in benefits to make home improvements:

More Money

The loan amount is based on the value of your home after the home improvements have been made.

Lower Monthly Payments

Purchase and improvements are financed simultaneously, so renovation costs are spread out through the entire term of the loan.

Tax Benefits

Interest on renovation costs is included in the first mortgage, so it may be tax deductible.

Speed

Renovation can begin immediately after closing

Single-close Simplicity

Just one application, one set of fees and closing costs, one monthly payment.

Flexibility

No required improvements or restrictions on repairs, luxury items such as pools and spas may be included.

Options

Fixed and adjustable rate mortgage programs.

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CPSC Alert: Air Compressor Recall Due to Fire Hazard

2009-06-24T10:20:00.011-04:00

Campbell Hausfeld Recalls Air Compressors Due to Fire Hazard; Sold Exclusively at Wal-Mart

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

June 17, 2009 Release # 09-245

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of Product: Campbell Hausfeld Air Compressors
Units: About 16,000
Importer: Campbell Hausfeld, of Harrison, Ohio

Hazard: The compressor’s thermal overload, which shuts the unit off when it overheats, can fail. This can lead to overheating, melting of parts and a risk of fire.

Incidents/Injuries: None reported.

Description: The recall involves the Campbell Hausfeld model HU200099AV air compressor with a 20-gallon tank. The recall includes date codes ranging from January 2009 through June 2009. The model number and date code can be located on the back of the tank.

Sold at: Wal-Mart stores nationwide from January 2009 through June 2009 for about $250.
Manufactured in: China

Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled air compressor and return it to any Wal-Mart for a full refund.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Campbell Hausfeld at (800) 241-0448 between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. ET Monday through Friday or visit the firm's Web site at www.chpower.com

__________________________________

CPSC Recall Alert: Battery Equalizer Fire Hazard

2009-06-24T10:03:00.013-04:00

SmartSpark Energy Systems Recalls Battery Equalizers Due to Fire Hazard

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

June 18, 2009 Release # 09-249

Name of Product: BattEQ Battery Equalizers
Units: About 800
Manufacturer: SmartSpark Energy Systems Inc., of Champaign, Ill.

Hazard: The recalled equalizers can overheat, posing a fire and burn hazard to consumers.
Incidents/Injuries: The firm has received one report of an equalizer that overheated which resulted in fire that caused damage to the equalizer and batteries. No injuries have been reported.

Description: The recalled battery equalizers are charge balancing devices designed to increase the performance and longevity of rechargeable batteries.

Sold at: Authorized distributors and retailers from July 2006 through March 2009 for about $300.
Manufactured in: United States

Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using these recalled battery equalizers and contact SmartSpark for a full refund.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact SmartSpark at (800) 905-6137 anytime Monday through Friday or visit the firm’s Web site at

www.batteq.com

CPSC is still interested in receiving incident or injury reports that are either directly related to this product recall or involve a different hazard with the same product. Please tell us about it by visiting https://www.cpsc.gov/cgibin/incident.aspx

_____________________________________________

Advanced Restoration Corporation is a family-owned and operated full-service property damage/disaster restoration company with a combined 75 years experience in dealing with Fire Damage Restoration, Water Damage Restoration, Flood & Storm Damage, Mold Remediation, Smoke Damage Restoration and Reconstruction. We service Long Island (Nassau County, NY; Suffolk County, NY) and the New York Metro area.

Water Damage, Floods & Heavy Rains Pummel NY!

2009-06-18T14:50:00.009-04:00

The National Weather Service has issued a FLASH FLOOD WATCH for portions of New York and New Jersey from until 8 p.m. on Thursday.

A FLASH FLOOD WATCH means that conditions may develop that lead to flash flooding. Flash flooding is a very dangerous situation. One to two inches of rainfall is expected. Locally higher amounts are possible especially in areas affected by thunderstorms.

TRACK WATCHES AND WARNINGS
There is also an urban flood advisory for Nassau and Suffolk counties until 4:45 p.m.
Recent heavy rainfall has left soil conditions around the New York City metropolitan area and northern New Jersey saturated.

Forecasters are predicting one to two inches into early Thursday evening, with higher amounts from thunderstorms. Streams could rise, particularly along the Raritan and Passaic river basins.

Check your basements for water damage...

Water Source Categories

Category 1: Often referred to as “clean” waterA “clean” water source is one that does not pose substantial harm to humans. Examples of clean water sources may include, but are not limited to: broken water supply lines, tub or sink overflows with no contaminants, appliance malfunctions involving water supply lines, melting ice or falling rainwater – not that which flows over the soil or through multiple structural components- broken toilet tanks, and even toilet bowls that do not contain contaminants or additives. Once a clean water source contacts other surfaces and materials, its condition may change as it dissolves or mixes with soils and other contaminants, and as time elapses.

Category 2: Often referred to as “gray” water Unsanitary or “gray” water contains some degree of contamination. Potentially, it could cause substantial discomfort or sickness if consumed by humans, and it carries microorganisms or nutrients for microorganisms. Category 2 (gray) water examples may include, but are not limited to: discharge from dishwashers or washing machines, overflows from washing machines, overflows of toilet bowls with some urine (no feces), broken aquariums, and punctured water beds. All of these may contain chemicals or biocontaminants (fungal, bacterial, viral, algae), or other forms of contamination. Time and temperature aggravate Category 2 (gray) water contamination significantly. Water in flooded structures that remains untreated longer than 48 hours can change from Category 2 (gray) to Category 3 (black).

Category 3: Often referred to as “black” waterCategory 3 “black” water always contains pathogenic agents. Grossly unsanitary, “black” water sources are those that arise from sewage or other contaminated water entering a structure. Sewage contains the expected urine and feces; but it could also contain dangerous chemicals or medical wastes. Toilet backflows that originate from beyond the toilet trap are considered to be Category 3 (black) water situations, regardless of visible content or color. This category includes all forms of sea water, ground surface water, and rising water from, rivers or streams. They carry silt and organic matter into structures and create Category 3 ”black” water situations. In situations where structural materials and / or contents have been heavily contaminated with such materials as pesticides, heavy metals, or toxic organic substances; the water damage is considered to be Category 3 (black) water.

If you have flooding or water damage from the storms hitting the NY Metro area, contact a reputable property damage restoration company. Advanced Restoration Corporation is a preferred vendor for insurance companies and is available 24/7 to respond to any disaster situation. Call them today at (800) 693-6263, or visit them on the web at www.AdvancedRestoration.com.

Disaster Mitigation...Buying Insurance

2009-06-18T12:49:00.011-04:00

DISASTER MITIGATION... BUYING INSURANCE
By Chris Floyd Disaster Services Director Capital Area Chapter American Red Cross

Even with adequate time to prepare for a disaster, you still may suffer significant, unavoidable damage to your property. That's when insurance for renters or homeowners can be a big help. Yet, many people affected by recent disasters have been underinsured- or worse- not insured at all. Make sure the insurance you buy protects against the perils you face.

If You Own a Home...

• Buy, at minimum, full replacement or replacement cost coverage. This means the structure can be replaced up to the limits specified in the policy. • Investigate buying a guaranteed replacement cost policy. When and where available, these policies can pay to rebuild your house, including improvements, at today's prices, regardless of the limits of the policy. • Have your home periodically reappraised to be sure the policy reflects the real replacement cost.• Update the policy to include any home improvements, such as basement refinishing. Annual automatic increases may not be enough to cover these. • Buy a policy that covers the replacement cost of your possessions. Standard coverage only pays for the actual cash value (replacement cost discounted for age or use). • Be very clear about what the policy will and will not cover, and how the deductibles work (the part you pay before the policy pays). • Check state-operated or federally operated insurance pools if you find it difficult to obtain private coverage because of a recent disaster. Premiums often run higher than market rates, but this is better than no coverage. • Conduct a home inventory, make a list, and use it to check that your policy's coverage matches the value of your possessions.

If You Rent...

• Buy renter's insurance, which pays for damaged, destroyed, or stolen personal property. Your landlords insurance wont cover damage to or loss of your possessions. Also, consider special coverage like flood insurance for your belongings. • Be clear about what a policy will cover. Some policies cover more than others. For example, will the policy pay for living expenses if you have to live somewhere else temporarily, or for damage from sewer backup? • Comparison shop for the best coverage at the best price. Policies vary from company to company. Policies in most areas are very affordable. Start with the company that insures your car. Discounts are often available if you carry more than one policy with a company.

You may also want to consider special coverage as insurance for renters and homeowners won't cover certain types of losses. Ask your insurance agent or financial planner about special or additional coverage for floods, earthquakes, home offices, and other potential problems.
_________________________________

Advanced Restoration Corporation is a full-service property damage/disaster restoration company that has been serving Long Island and the New York metropolitan area for over 20 years.

The company offers the highest quality residential, commercial and industrial property restoration and remediation services available. Our qualified and professional staff is capable of handling all aspects of fire & smoke damage, mold remediation and water damage. Emergency response teams are available 24/7 to promptly execute the required services for a customer.

Advanced Restoration is a member of multiple industry associations, including NYARM, BOMA, PIA, YIP, IICRC, NARI, NIDR and RIA. We are licensed in Nassau and Suffolk County, as well as the five boroughs of New York City.

Please contact Gary Matzelle at (516) 903-4107 with any questions, or send an email to gmatzelle@advancedrestoration.com. Our corporate website can be viewed at www.advancedrestoration.com.

Purchasing a Foreclosure Needing Repairs?

2009-06-17T14:31:00.013-04:00

You see the perfect home in a Long Island neighborhood, and the house is a foreclosure. The exterior of the home is nice, but the inside has water damage, structural damage and mold. You want to buy this house and the selling price is excellent...What are your options as a homebuyer? Will you be able to "close" on a home that is in disrepair?

Of course you can...

When a homebuyer wants to purchase a house in need of repair or modernization, the homebuyer usually has to obtain financing first to purchase the dwelling; additional financing to do the rehabilitation construction; and a permanent mortgage when the work is completed to pay off the interim loans with a permanent mortgage.

Often the interim financing (the acquisition and construction loans) involves relatively high interest rates and short amortization periods. The FHA 203(k) mortgage program was designed to address this situation. The borrower can get just one mortgage loan, at a long-term fixed (or adjustable) rate, to finance both the acquisition and the rehabilitation of the property.

To provide funds for the rehabilitation, the mortgage amount is based on the projected value of the property with the work completed, taking into account the cost of the work. To minimize the risk to the mortgage lender, the mortgage loan (the maximum allowable amount) is eligible for endorsement by HUD as soon as the mortgage proceeds are disbursed and a rehabilitation escrow account is established.

The types of improvements that borrowers may make using Section 203(k) financing include:

-Structural alterations and reconstruction
-Modernization and improvements to the home's function
-Elimination of health and safety hazards
-Changes that improve appearance and eliminate obsolescence
-Reconditioning or replacing plumbing; installing a well and/or septic system
-Adding or replacing roofing, gutters, and downspouts
-Adding or replacing floors and/or floor treatments
-Major landscape work and site improvements
-Enhancing accessibility for a disabled person
-Making energy conservation improvements

The 203(k) Program is somewhat complicated and you must deal with an FHA approved lender, however, the program will allow you to obtain a mortgage and incorporate the necessary repairs into one mortgage payment. In addition, when selecting a general contractor to perform the rehab, you need to ensure the company is familiar with the 203k process and appropriate forms required. Streamlined 203k loans are also available for rehab/ home repairs under $35,000.

Advanced Restoration Corporation is located in New York and is a general contractor/ restoration company that specializes in the rehabilitation of homes in disrepair. We partner with various mortgage companies and have experience with contractor requirements associated with a 203 (k) loan.

For more information on partnering with an experienced 203(k) company ready to rebuild your dream house, contact Gary Matzelle at (516) 903-4107. Our service area includes: Nassau County, Suffolk County, Queens, Manhattan, Staten Island, Brooklyn and The Bronx.

Congrats to Gino Orrino...NY YIP Volunteer of the Year!

2009-06-12T09:02:00.011-04:00

Congratulations to Gino Orrino from Advanced Restoration...

CONTACT: Melissa N. Cibelli, public relations specialistor Mary E. Christiano, director of communication (800) 424-4244Fax: (888) 225-6935E-mail: publications@pia.orgWeb site: www.pia.org/NY/FOR RELEASE: Jun. 8, 2009

Orrino named NY-YIP Volunteer of the Year

ATLANTIC CITY, N.J.–Gino Orrino, principal of Orrino Capital Services LLC in Corona, N.Y. received the New York Young Insurance Professionals Volunteer of the Year at the Professional Insurance Agents of New Jersey and New York Inc.’s Joint Annual Business Conference. The event was held at the Trump Taj Mahal Resort Casino in Atlantic City, June 7-9.
The award is bestowed by NY-YIP to an individual who is committed to improving the quality of events and programs of the organization by giving of their personal time so that others will benefit.

“Gino’s tireless commitment to NY-YIP is second to none,” said Amy Bryan, president of NY-YIP. “It is with great appreciation that we recognize him for what he’s done for our organization and industry.”

A NY-YIP member since 2005, Orrino is chairperson of the organization’s Events Committee. A major supporter of PIANY, Orrino is a member of the association’s Long Island Regional Awareness Program.

NY-YIP is an organization dedicated to the professional and personal growth of newcomers to the insurance industry. It is affiliated with PIANY, a trade association representing professional, independent insurance agencies and their employees throughout the state.

Disaster Strikes Your Business...Now What?

2009-06-08T14:43:00.013-04:00

You own a business in New York (on Long Island) and you think "it" will never happen to you...

2:30AM...An electrical short sparks a small fire inside the walls of your building.

2:35AM...Dust, framing and insulation immediately catch fire and burn intensely.

2:45AM...Tremendous heat from the now out-of-control blaze sets off the sprinkler system.

3:15AM...The fire department arrives and begins putting out the flames.

4:30AM...The fire is out, but there is immense fire, smoke and water damage.

6:30AM...You arrive at your office to find out your building and contents are severely damaged by water, fire and smoke.

Now What???
Having the proper insurance in the event of a disaster (from flooding and water damage to storm and wind damage) is essential to ensure your business will be able to continue after property damage occurs.

Insurance Coverage
Inadequate insurance coverage can lead to major financial loss if your business is damaged, destroyed or simply interrupted for a period of time. Insurance policies vary, check with your agent or provider.

Meet with your insurance provider to review current coverage for such things as physical losses, flood coverage and business interruption.

-Understand what it covers and what it does not.
-Understand what your deductible is, if applicable.
-Consider how you will pay creditors and employees.
-Plan how you will provide for your own income if your business is interrupted.
-Find out what records your insurance provider will want to see after an emergency and store them in a safe place.

Knowing who to call in the event of a disaster is also essential to get your business back up and running with minimal downtime. Ensure you have a pre-established relationship with a full service property damage restoration company. This will allow you to mitigate damage to your property structure, as well as minimaize business disruption.

One more thing....Never let your insurance lapse!!!

Learning Social Media

2009-05-29T09:15:00.002-04:00

Social media marketing is a fast-growing innovation, tapping into the rising influence of user-generated communities such as blogs, wikis, networking, and bookmarking sites.
By joining these active communities, you can build relationships and promote your products and/or expertise.

Generally, online social networks attract members who bond over shared interests and opinions. That creates a clubby and trusted group of virtually connected friends or associates. So when a member or blogger recommends your product, commends your service, or endorses your comments, it results in powerful "word of mouse" referrals.

Alternatively, if you make the effort, you can develop your own following on social media sites as an opinion-maker, authority, adviser, industry analyst, or wry observer. As a result of getting noticed in all the right places, you can generate leads and convert those leads into sales.
Tip: However tempting it may be, don't assume a fake identity to talk up your company (unless you’re being an obvious jokester). It's bound to boomerang.User-generated communities aren’t just for kids anymore.

Don't think this strategy only suits niche markets. Social sites are exploding across the Web.
The most popular categories tend to be communities where you create and share information, such as MySpace, Facebook, Friendster, Bebo, Squidoo, and Tagged. Or it can be those where you bookmark useful or fun sites for other users, such as Digg, del.icio.us, or StumbleUpon. Visit this page for a broad list of social networking and media sites.

Visitors to social media sites jumped a staggering 774 percent between 2006 and 2007, according to a 2007 comScore study. And the Pew Internet Study reports that some 50 million Americans are reading blogs. What's more, adult interaction in social media is significantly on the rise.Choosing your online megaphone.

For small-business owners, the social media horizon is broad indeed.
Like much of search engine marketing, social media marketing doesn’t cost much in dollars. But it does require time and effort to:
investigate sites;
create and monitor content;
track traffic and referrals;
refine efforts to improve results, and
keep at it until you have an impact.

Here are some proven ways to start stirring the pot. You'll learn more as you go.

1. Contribute to a community whose members mirror your customers. By checking into the comments, forums, and profiles of a community, you can determine member interests, locations, and a rough sense of demographics. Once you've identified a community that matches your preferred customer, there are a number of ways to get noticed. For example, Irina Patterson runs an event-planning business from her home in Miami. She often posts on the local craigslist and, she says, gets great results. "It is a community that responds almost instantly. You can pose a question, share a resource, ask for a barter deal or ask for advice. You can target specific geographic areas, which is important for a service business like mine." Patterson makes sure her posts link back to her company Web site.

2. Become a commentator on a well-trafficked blog in your industry or field. Don't ignore the blogosphere. According to Technorati, the blog search engine, nearly 97 million blogs were being published as of mid-2007. Get familiar with a few blogs compatible with your business. A good start is a search on Technorati as well as visits to your industry or professional associations and trade journals to see what they serve up. Make sure you're up-to-speed on the blog's tone, issues, and attitudes before you chime in. When you start generating reactions, you'll know you're hitting nerves.

3. Create a viral video campaign. Online videos are now cheap and easy to create and upload, notes search engine marketing consultant Susan Gilbert at JoomlaJump.com.
Produce a video of two to three minutes that dramatizes or explains your online site or your market niche and yourself. Then upload the video to MSN, YouTube, or other video communities to drive traffic to your Web site, Gilbert says. If you link the videos to community pages on social bookmarking sites, you create a little network that search engines will find. Next thing you know, you're getting referred traffic and, potentially, more customers.

4. Join a professional networking site (or two). These can be hit or miss, depending on what you market and how you work the community. For professional services such as PR and consulting, it can generate leads. Check out examples such as LinkedIn, ZoomInfo, Facebook, and Biltmore Who's Who. Then branch out to others.

5. Launch a blog. This is the most obvious idea, and, no question, online templates now make it easy to create a blog. Run a search and you'll find options. What's hard is to gain traction and keep posting lively content (with a link to your company site, of course). See these tips for starting a blog.

6. Become a dedicated gamer. Game for this? Depending on your wares and customer profile, engaging in the multi-user online gaming community can be a rewarding way to draw traffic and viral referrals, says Marian Sabety, at Wyndstorm, a social network technology marketer.
One of the largest is World of Warcraft, but new ones pop up frequently.
Unless you are already pulling lots of traffic, first gain experience with some of the above tactics before starting a blog. Once you have the hang of it, you'll know more about leveraging the power of a personal blog. Finally, remember to add value rather than to merely advertise your product. To make social media marketing work, you must enjoy being part of the community.

About the author Joanna L. Krotz is the founder of Muse2Muse Productions, a custom content company for business and consumer magazines, newsletters, and digital imprints. Krotz has launched marketing Web sites and e-news portals, as well as created magazines and online marketing for a variety of companies. She is co-author of The Microsoft Small Business Kit, a 500-page guide to launching and running a small business.
Filed under: Blogging, Online Marketing, Other, Social networks

Two Long Island Beaches Voted In Top 10

2009-05-29T09:06:00.000-04:00

Two Long Island beaches on Top 10 Beaches in U.S.

10:23 PM EDT, May 22, 2009

This will come as no surprise to Long Islanders: Two of the best beaches in America are on the East End.Once again, Coopers Beach in Southampton and Main Beach in East Hampton have been voted among the Top 10 Beaches in the United States by the self-anointed "Dr. Beach" - coastal expert Stephen P. Leatherman, director of the Laboratory for Coastal Research at Florida International University.Coopers Beach regained No. 3 on the list, one year after slipping to No. 4. Main Beach remained at No. 6 for the second straight year, after being ranked No. 7 in 2007.The best beach in America is Hanalei Bay on the Hawaiian island of Kauai. Leatherman said the spectacular white crescent-shaped sand beach is considered "the most-beautiful beach setting in Hawaii."

HP Recalls Notebook Computer Batteries Due to Fire Hazard

2009-05-26T15:03:00.006-04:00

Check Your Computer!
Office of Information and Public Affairs
Washington, DC 20207

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 14, 2009
Release # 09-221

Firm’s Recall Hotline: (800) 889-2031CPSC Recall Hotline: (800) 638-2772CPSC Media Contact: (301) 504-7908

HP Recalls Notebook Computer Batteries Due to Fire Hazard

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of Product: Lithium-Ion batteries used in Hewlett-Packard and Compaq notebook computers

Units: About 70,000

Importer: Hewlett-Packard Co., of Palo Alto, Calif.

Hazard: The recalled lithium-ion batteries can overheat, posing a fire and burn hazard to consumers.

Incidents/Injuries: The firm and CPSC are aware of two reports of batteries that overheated and ruptured, resulting in flames/fire that caused minor property damage. No injuries have been reported.

Description: The recalled lithium-ion rechargeable batteries are used with various HP and Compaq notebook computers.

Models that can contain a recalled battery include:

HP Pavilion:
dv2000
dv2500
dv2700
dv6000
dv6500
dv6700
dv9000
dv9500
dv9700

Compaq Presario:
A900
C700
F700
V3000
V3500
V3700
V6000
V6500
V6700

HP
G6000
G7000

HP Compaq
6720s

The notebook model is located at the top of the service label on the bottom of the notebook. Batteries that can be subject to the recall will have one of the following bar code labels (^ in the code can be any letter or number):

62940^^AXV^^^^
65033^^B7U^^^^65033^^B7V^^^^65033^^BGU^^^^
65035^^B7U^^^^65035^^B7V^^^^65035^^BGU^^^^65035^^BGV^^^^
67059^^V8U^^^^67059^^V8V^^^^

Sold at:
Computer and electronics stores nationwide, hp.com and hpshopping.com from August 2007 through March 2008 for between $500 and $3000. The battery packs were also sold separately for between $100 and $160.

Manufactured in: China

Remedy:
Consumers should immediately remove the recalled battery from their notebook computer and contact HP to determine if their battery is included in the recall and to request a free replacement battery. After removing the recalled battery from their notebook computer, consumers may use the AC adapter to power the computer until a replacement battery arrives. Consumers should only use batteries obtained from HP or an authorized reseller.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, visit the HP Battery Replacement Program Web site at http://www.hp.com/support/BatteryReplacement or call (800) 889-2031 between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. CT Monday through Friday.

Media Contact: Sheila Watson at (281) 514-6552 or sheila.watson@hp.com

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Advanced Restoration Corporation is a family-owned and operated full-service property damage restoration company with a combined 75 years experience in dealing with Fire Damage Restoration, Water Damage Restoration, Flood & Storm Damage, Mold Remediation, Smoke Damage Restoration and Reconstruction. We service Long Island (Nassau County, NY; Suffolk County, NY) and the New York Metro area.

When disasters strike, Advanced Restoration is ready to respond 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You are guaranteed to speak with one of our knowledgeable, caring team members, day or night. Our immediate response to a claim/property loss helps minimize the damages to the structure, contents, and ease the sometime catastrophic effect that a disaster may have on an owner or occupants.

What is a Certified Restorer?

2009-05-07T16:24:00.021-04:00

Fire Damage, Smoke Damage, Water Damage, Mold Remediation...

There are numerous Restoration companies throughout Long Island and the New York Metro area, but only a handful hold the title of Certified Restorer (CR). Disaster recovery is essential to any property structure, and Certified Restorers have the experience and ability to ensure all aspects of property damage are handled with the utmost professionalism. Advanced Restoration Corporation is one of the primary companies on Long Island with the CR designation.

Certified Restorer

The Certified Restorer program is a week-long master's course in damage repair offered to experienced contractors and restorers. The program's objective is to raise committed restorers to a higher level of professional ability.

The course addresses both buildings and personal property and is based on the structure and nature of materials, with the effects of various perils. A section on restoration theory addresses the mechanisms by which residue odors are removed. Toxic contamination, allergic response, water damage, contracts and insurance are also covered. The Certified Restorer course is widely recognized as the pre-eminent training program in damage repair.

Experience

All candidates to the Certified Restorer (CR) Program must be actively involved in restoration work at the time of application and have 3 or more years of active experience in disaster damage restoration as a technician, supervisor or estimator. The company or employer must be a member in good standing of RIA International.

Education

CR candidates must have attended one NIDR or WLI seminar or an RIA convention in the 12 months preceding the CR school.

Candidates must complete the Certified Restorer School and successfully pass the written examination with a score of 80% or better.

Ethics Quiz

Candidates must complete an Ethics Quiz administered by the course instructor or a designated member of the CR Committee. A thorough understanding of the NIDR Code of Ethics and the Certified Restorer Code of Conduct is required.

Formal Report

On completion of the class, candidates must prepare a formal report or a thesis on an approved research topic.

Maintaining Certified Restorer Status

Certified Restorers must participate in a recertification program and maintain current membership in RIA International in order to retain their CR status. All CR continuing education is based on a three-year continuous cycle. Cycles for newly inducted CRs begin on the January 1 following the date of induction. All CRs are required to participate, and all required points must be earned within the time frame.

For more information on the Restoration Industry Association's advanced designations: CR, WLS, CRS, CMH, CMP and CFS, please contact the RIA Education Department at 443-878-1000.

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Advanced Restoration is also an expert in partnering with mortgage companies and families buying homes on Long Island. We are experienced in dealing with FHA approved 203 (k) loans associated with foreclosures, as well as streamlined 203(k) loans. For more information on having Advanced Restoration become your 203(k) contractor, please contact Gary Matzelle at (516) 903-4107.

Coffeemaker Fire Recall Alert-Walgreens

2009-05-07T09:48:00.009-04:00

Source: CPSC
Office of Information and Public Affairs
Washington, DC 20207
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEApril 6, 2009Release #09-184
Firm's Recall Hotline: (877) 546-4835CPSC Recall Hotline: (800) 638-2772CPSC Media Contact: (301) 504-7908

Atico International USA Recalls Coffeemakers Sold Exclusively At Walgreens Due to Fire Hazard WASHINGTON, D.C.

Name of Product: Signature Gourmet™ 12-Cup Programmable Coffeemakers and Kitchen Gourmet® 10-Cup Coffeemakers
Units: About 500,000
Distributor: Atico International USA Inc., of Fort Lauderdale, Fla.
Hazard: These coffeemakers can ignite due to an electrical failure, posing a fire hazard.
Incidents/Injuries: Atico International USA, Inc. has received 23 reports of coffeemakers igniting, resulting in property damage. No injuries have been reported.

Description: This recall involves the following coffeemakers:

Name: Kitchen Gourmet® 10-CupCoffeemaker
Color: White
Model: # XQ-673K
Item#: W14A3714

Name: Signature Gourmet™ 12-CupProgrammable Coffeemaker
Color: Black
Model: XQ-673BTorCM4193D
Item#: W14A5084

The name of the coffeemaker is printed on the front of the unit. The model number and the item number are printed on a sticker located on the bottom of the unit.

Sold at: Walgreens stores nationwide: the Signature Gourmet™ 12-Cup programmable coffeemaker from June 2004 through March 2009 for about $20 and the Kitchen Gourmet® 10-Cup coffeemaker from August 2006 through December 2008 for about $10.
Manufactured in: China

Remedy: Consumers should immediately unplug and stop using the recalled coffeemaker and contact Atico International USA for instructions on returning the product for a full refund.
Consumer Contact: Consumers should call Atico International USA toll-free at (877) 546-4835 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or visit the company’s Web site at www.aticousa.com

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Advanced Restoration Corporation is a family-owned and operated full-service property damage restoration company with a combined 75 years experience in dealing with Fire Damage Restoration, Water Damage Restoration, Flood & Storm Damage, Mold Remediation, Smoke Damage Restoration and Reconstruction. We service Long Island (Nassau County, NY; Suffolk County, NY) and the New York Metro area.
When disasters strike, Advanced Restoration is ready to respond 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You are guaranteed to speak with one of our knowledgeable, caring team members, day or night. Our immediate response to a claim/property loss helps minimize the damages to the structure, contents, and ease the sometime catastrophic effect that a disaster may have on an owner or occupants.

Foreclosure Rescue Scams-HUD News Release

2009-04-27T11:40:00.009-04:00

Source: HUD No. 09-033
Melanie Roussell (202) 708-0685 www.hud.gov/news/
For Release Monday
April 6, 2009

FEDERAL, STATE PARTNERS ANNOUNCE MULTI-AGENCY CRACKDOWN TARGETING FORECLOSURE RESCUE SCAMS, LOAN MODIFICATION FRAUD

Civil Enforcement Cases, State Enforcement Actions, Alert to Financial Institutions Among New Efforts to Protect American Homeowners Seeking Relief

WASHINGTON - As homeowners and communities throughout the country continue to face devastating consequences from the deep contraction in the economy and the housing market, the Obama Administration today announced a new coordinated effort across federal and state government and the private sector to target mortgage loan modification fraud and foreclosure rescue scams that threaten to hurt American homeowners and prevent them from getting the help they need during these challenging times. The new effort announced today aligns responses from federal law enforcement agencies, state investigators and prosecutors, civil enforcement authorities, and the private sector to protect homeowners seeking assistance under the Administration's Making Home Affordable program from criminal actors looking to perpetrate predatory schemes.

The U.S. Department of the Treasury, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ), the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), and the Attorney General of Illinois today discussed new initiatives to coordinate information and resources across agencies to maximize targeting and efficiency in fraud investigations, alert financial institutions to emerging schemes, step up enforcement actions and educate consumers to help those in financial trouble avoid becoming the victims of a loan modification or foreclosure rescue scam.

See full article...
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Advanced Restoration Corporation is a full-service restoration contractor with the ability to provide complete Rehabilitation & Restoration services to your new home! Water Damge? Mold? Structural Damage? We provide the expertise and knowledge to partner with you and your mortgage company today.

For more information about how Advanced Restoration can work with you on becoming the restoration contractor for your FHA 203(k) loan, please contact Gary Matzelle at (800) 693- 6263.

203(k) Loan Application Process

2009-04-25T22:06:00.007-04:00

The 203(k) Rehab Program is available through FHA approved lenders and is available in New York.

Here is a brief summary that provides the process for homeowners interested in applying for a 203(k) loan:

Homebuyer Locates the Property.
Preliminary Feasibility Analysis
Sales Contract is Executed
Homebuyer Selects Mortgage Lender
Homebuyer Prepares Work Write-up and Cost Estimate.
Lender Requests HUD Case Number
Plan Reviewer Visits Property
Appraiser Performs the Appraisal
Lender Reviews the Application
Issuance of Conditional Commitment
Lender Prepares Firm Commitment Application
Lender Issues Firm Commitment
Mortgage Loan Closing
Mortgage Insurance Endorsement
Rehabilitation Construction Begins
Releases from Rehabilitation Escrow Account
Completion of Work/Final Inspection

Advanced Restoration Corporation is a full-service 203(k) restoration contractor with the ability to provide complete Rehabilitation & Restoration services to your new home! We work closely with all FHA approved lenders and are committed to providing professional service throughout the NY Metro area.

For more information about mortgage companies authorized to generate FHA 203(k) loans, please contact Gary Matzelle at (800) 693- 6263 or send an email to gmatzelle@advancedrestoration.com

203(k) Re-hab/Restoration Loans- What Can You Do?

2009-04-22T12:45:00.016-04:00

Pursuing an FHA 203(k) loan enables homebuyers and homeowners to finance both the purchase (or refinancing) of a house and the cost of its rehabilitation through a single mortgage or to finance the rehabilitation of their existing home.

The extent of the rehabilitation covered by a 203(k) may range from relatively minor (minimum of $5000 in cost) to virtual reconstruction: a home that has been demolished or will be restored as part of rehabilitation is eligible.

Section 203(k) insured loans can finance the rehabilitation of the residential portion of a property that also has non-residential uses; they can also cover the conversion of a property of any size to a one-to-four unit structure.

The types of improvements that borrowers may make using Section 203(k) financing include:

-Structural alterations and reconstruction

-Modernization and improvements to the home's function

-Elimination of health and safety hazards

-Changes that improve appearance and eliminate obsolescence

-Reconditioning or replacing plumbing; installing a well and/or septic system

-Adding or replacing roofing, gutters, and downspouts

-Adding or replacing floors and/or floor treatments

-Major landscape work and site improvements

-Enhancing accessibility for a disabled person

-Making energy conservation improvements

Advanced Restoration Corporation is located in New York and is a general contractor/ restoration company that specializes in the rehabilitation of homes in disrepair. We are affiliated with various mortgage companies and have experience with contractor requirements associated with a 203 (k) loan.

For more information on partnering with an experienced company ready to rebuild your dream house, contact Gary Matzelle at (516)903-4107. Service area includes: Nassau County, Suffolk County, Queens, Manhattan, Staten Island, Brooklyn and The Bronx.

Real Estate Deals & Mold in Homes

2009-04-20T15:54:00.010-04:00

If the home you are thinking about purchasing has mold, do not panic!

You can remove unusual mold levels from the home, and bring it back to the original condition.
It is impossible to completely eliminate all mold and mold spores indoors. Mold will always be found floating in the air and in house dust. Indoor mold growth can be prevented by controlling water and moisture indoors.

The following may prevent or reduce indoor mold growth:

-Repair any water leaks.
-Provide good air circulation.
-All HVAC systems should have a good electrostatic filter on the return.
-Use bathroon, laundry and kitchen exhaust fans.
-Insulate and ventilate attic and crawl space areas.
-Clean, dry or remove items that are damaged by water immediately.

An integral part of the mold clean-up process is the clearance testing. This final testing procedure provides confirmation that the project has been satisfactorily remediated and that the contamination has not spread to other areas.

Remember...If there is mold growth in your home, you must clean up the mold and fix the water problem. If you clean up the mold, but do not eliminate the water problem, the mold will grow back! For more information, contact a restoration company that specializes in mold removal.

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Portable Power Sources Recalled: Fire Hazard

2009-04-15T16:04:00.007-04:00

Portable Power Sources Recalled Due to Fire Hazard

Source: CPSC

U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission
Office of Information and Public Affairs
Washington, DC 20207

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEApril 2, 2009Release #09-182
Firm's Recall Hotline: (800) 233-0462CPSC Recall Hotline: (800) 638-2772CPSC Media Contact: (301) 504-7908

Best Buy Announces the Recall of Certain Rocketfish Universal Portable Power Sources Due to Fire HazardWASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of Product: Rocketfish Model RF-INV80 Universal AC/DC/USB Portable Power Source

Units: About 1,400

Importer: Best Buy Co. Inc., of Richfield, Minn.

Hazard: While charging the battery, the power source can unexpectedly ignite, posing a fire hazard to consumers.

Incidents/Injuries: The firm has received three reports of fires resulting in minor property damage. No injuries reported.

Description: This recall involves Rocketfish Universal AC/DC/USB portal power sources with model number RF-INV80. The model number is printed on the back of the power source and “Rocketfish” is printed on the cover.

Sold exclusively at: Best Buy stores nationwide and at bestbuy.com from July 2008 through February 2009 for about $100.

Manufactured in: China

Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled power sources and contact Best Buy to receive a gift card for the value of the product.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Best Buy at (800) 233-0462 between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m. CT daily, or visit the firm’s Web site at

http://www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage.jsp?id=pcmcat114800050015&type=category

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2009-04-10T12:35:00.008-04:00

Will an Emergency Shut You Down?

A professional facility manager or property owner does not question the possibility of a disaster, but asks “what could happen, and when?”

Whether it is a natural disaster such as severe storms, floods or earthquakes, or the far more common man-made emergencies which include fire, smoke, pipe burst or structural damage, a well prepared manager/owner is ready to handle these types of problems and has a business continuity plan in place.

Pre-Select a Restoration Contractor!

Pre-selecting a multi-faceted restoration contractor is a critical part of any written Emergency Procedure plan. The day after a disaster, when the management team is under incredible stress, is not the time to search for a restoration contractor or emergency response contractor.

Be Prepared, Plan Ahead!

Advanced Restoration, a DKI member company, provides the following:

- 24/7 Emergency Response
- Full Service Property Damage Restoration
- Experience, Expertise & Technology

Don't wait for an emergency to select your emergency contractor. Look for the best service and for the contractor who's willing to work with you when your disaster strikes...even if it's Christmas Eve or a Sunday night.

As a full service restoration company, Advanced Restoration is capable of handling major damage to a structure, including:

Water Damage Mitigation

Mold Remediation

Fire & Smoke Damage

Board-Up and Tarping

Complete Reconstruction

Start protecting your investments today! Call Advanced Restoration, a DKI Member Company that is ready to partner with you. Telephone: (800) 693-6263. Advanced Restoration services the New York Metro area, including Nassau and Suffolk Counties.

LCD Television Recall: Fire Hazard

2009-04-03T16:20:00.007-04:00

Best Buy Announces the Recall of Certain Insignia 26-Inch Flat-Panel LCD Televisions Due to Fire Hazard

Source: CPSC
Office of Information and Public Affairs
Washington, DC 20207

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 2, 2009Release #09-183
Firm's Recall Hotline: (800) 233-0462CPSC Recall Hotline: (800) 638-2772CPSC Media Contact: (301) 504-7908

Best Buy Announces the Recall of Certain Insignia 26-Inch Flat-Panel LCD Televisions Due to Fire HazardWASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of Product: Insignia 26-inch flat-panel LCD model IS-LCDTV26 televisions

Units: About 13,300

Importer: Best Buy Co. Inc., of Richfield, Minn.

Hazard: The television’s power supply can fail, posing a fire and burn hazard to consumers.
Incidents/Injuries: Best Buy has received two reports of fires that included damage to the television and wall. One consumer reported minor burns to the hands.
Description: This recall involves Insignia 26-inch flat-panel LCD televisions, model number IS-LCDTV26. The model number is printed on the back of the television and the word “INSIGNIA” is printed on the bottom front. No other Insignia model televisions are involved in this recall.
Sold exclusively at: Best Buy stores nationwide, at ww.bestbuy.com, and www.bestbuyforbusiness.com from August 2005 through June 2006 for about $800.

Manufactured in: China

Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled televisions and contact the Best Buy hotline to receive a gift card for the value of a replacement television.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Best Buy at (800) 233-0462 between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m. CT daily, or visit the firm’s Web site at

http://www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage.jsp?id=pcmcat114800050015&type=category

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2009-04-02T08:18:00.012-04:00

Yet Another Fire Hazard Recall Alert...

Source: CPSC

Office of Information and Public Affairs
Washington, DC 20207

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEMarch 31, 2009

Release # 09-173
Firm’s Recall Hotline: (800) 687-6916CPSC Recall Hotline: (800) 638-2772CPSC Media Contact: (301) 504-7908

Clothing Irons Recalled by Conair Corporation Due to Fire HazardWASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of product: Clothing Irons

Units: About 45,000

Distributor: Conair Corporation, of Stamford, Conn.

Hazard: The clothing iron can overheat, posing a fire hazard to consumers.

Incidents/Injuries: Conair has received three reports of overheating, including two fires resulting in property damage. No injuries have been reported.

Description: This recall involves Conair clothing irons with model numbers DPP1500, DPP1500R and DPP3500. The model number is printed below the soleplate. No other models are included in this recall.

Sold at: Department and retail stores nationwide from October 2008 through March 2009 for about $50.
Manufactured in: China

Remedy: Consumers should immediately unplug and stop using the recalled clothing irons and contact Conair to receive a free comparable product.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Conair at (800) 687-6916 between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or visit the firm’s Web site at

www.Conair.com

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Advanced Restoration Corporation Joins Disaster Kleenup International

2009-03-23T11:21:00.018-04:00

Disaster Kleenup International, Inc., North America's largest disaster restoration contracting organization, today announced that Advanced Restoration Corporation of West Babylon, New York, has joined the DKI network. Advanced Restoration Corporation has provided insurance restoration in the West Babylon marketplace since 1990.

By virtue of its DKI membership, Advanced Restoration Corporation can employ DKI's 24 hour call center, its DIAMOND claims tracking technology, and other tools to enhance their ability to serve their insurance and corporate customers. Advanced Restoration Corporation also gains access to DKI training seminars and workshops which ensure that they remain abreast of all changes in this rapidly evolving industry.

"We are delighted to welcome Advanced Restoration Corporation into the rapidly growing DKI network," stated Dale Sailer, DKI's President. "Advanced Restoration Corporation's commitment to quick response, superior workmanship and outstanding customer service reaffirms DKI's position in the marketplace as The Source for Quality Restoration. We look forward to a long and rewarding association."

Advanced Restoration Corporation President Brian G. Martin is pleased that the company is a part of the DKI network, giving them the opportunity to work in partnership with other quality firms. The DKI network will allow Advanced Restoration Corporation to expand their scope of service, introduce them to new markets and ensure the company's success long into the future.

In addition to the benefits of DKI's technology and training capabilities, Advanced Restoration Corporation will also be able to utilize the Disaster Kleenup branding in its marketing efforts, participate in its various coop programs, and leverage DKI's corporate marketing efforts.
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### About DKI Disaster Kleenup International, Inc., headquartered in Wood Dale, IL, is the largest disaster restoration organization in North America. DKI member companies provide full service restoration to their customers: emergency response, water damage mitigation, mold remediation, complete reconstruction and much more, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. DKI returns damaged property to its pre-loss condition quickly and efficiently, delivering complete satisfaction to our consumer, insurance, and corporate customers.

For more information about Disaster Kleenup International, Inc., visit our website at www.disasterkleenup.com or contact Dan Cassara at 630.350.3000 x254 or email at dcassara@disasterkleenup.com. Contact: Dan Cassara Phone: 630.350.3000 x254 Email: dcassara@disasterkleenup.com

Fire Extinguisher Recall Alert

2009-03-17T20:05:00.011-04:00

The US Consumer Product Safety Commission recently released information related to Kidde Fire Extinguishers. It is imperative to review this recall information and check the fire extinguishers in your home or business.

Source: CPSC

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

March 12, 2009 Release # 09-151
Firm’s Recall Hotline: (888) 345-4407CPSC Recall Hotline: (800) 638-2772CPSC Media Contact: (301) 504-7908

Kidde Recalls to Replace Fire Extinguishers Due to Failure to Operate

Name of product: Kidde XL Fire Extinguishers
Units: About 167,000
Distributor: Walter Kidde Portable Equipment Inc., of Mebane, N.C.
Hazard: The pressurized cylinders in the recalled fire extinguishers could lose pressure and fail to operate. In the event of a fire, this failure could put a consumer and property at risk.
Incidents/Injuries: None reported.

Description: This recall involves the Kidde XL Fire Extinguishers with model numbers FX340SC, FX340H, FX340GW, XL5MR, FX210R, FX340SC-2, FX210W, XL2.5TCZ-4, E-340-3 and with manufacture dates between October 2007 and April 2008. “Kidde” and the model number can be found on the label on the front of the extinguisher. The manufacture year is on the bottom of the extinguisher. If your extinguisher is one of the listed model numbers and is marked with the year 07 or 08, contact Kidde to determine if you have a recalled extinguisher.

Sold at: Department, home, and hardware stores nationwide from October 2007 through April 2008 for about $35.
Manufactured in: Mexico
Remedy: Consumers should immediately inspect the pressure gauge. If it points to the red zone, contact Kidde to receive a free replacement extinguisher. If the gauge is not in the red zone, but you have questions about an extinguisher within the listed model numbers, please contact Kidde for additional information.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Kidde at (888) 345-4407 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday or visit the firm’s Web site at

www.Kidde.com

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Advanced Restoration Corporation is a family-owned and operated full-service property damage restoration company with a combined 75 years experience in dealing with Fire Damage Restoration, Water Damage Restoration, Flood & Storm Damage, Mold Remediation, Smoke Damage Restoration and Reconstruction. We service Long Island (Nassau County, NY; Suffolk County, NY) and the New York Metro area.

As certified specialists in water mitigation and fire/smoke restoration, we have the knowledge, expertise and experience to deal with all types of property damage. Our professional staff is also trained in all aspects of mold remediation and damage appraisals. Service area: Nassau County, Suffolk County and the NY Boroughs. Advanced Restoration is now a member of DKI.

Streamlined 203 (k) Loan: Repairs/Foreclosure

2009-03-11T16:13:00.011-04:00

Foreclosures continue to dominate the real estate market and as a result, many homes are left in disrepair. If you are contemplating the purchase of a foreclosure requiring minor repairs, you may want to consider a "Streamlined" 203(k) loan.

The Streamlined (k) Limited Repair Program was developed to augment FHA’s existing Section 203(k) rehabilitation program for less extensive repairs and improvement.

What improvements are eligible under the Streamlined 203 (k) program?
The Streamlined (k) program is intended to facilitate uncomplicated rehabilitation and/or improvements to a home for which plans, consultants, engineers and/or architects are not required.

The Streamlined (k) program includes the discretionary improvements and/or repairs shown below:

*Repair/Replacement of roofs, gutters and downspouts
*Repair/Replacement/upgrade of existing HVAC systems
*Repair/Replacement/upgrade of plumbing and electrical systems
*Repair/Replacement of flooring
*Minor remodeling, such as kitchens, which does not involve structural repairs
*Painting, both exterior and interior
* Weatherization, including storm windows and doors, insulation, weather stripping, etc.
*Purchase and installation of appliances, including free-standing ranges, refrigerators, washers/dryers, dishwashers and microwave ovens
*Accessibility improvements for persons with disabilities
* Lead-based paint stabilization or abatement of lead-based paint hazards
*Repair/replace/add exterior decks, patios, porches
*Basement finishing and remodeling, which does not involve structural repairs
*Basement waterproofing
*Window and door replacements and exterior wall re-siding
*Septic system and/or well repair or replacement

What are the minimum and maximum amounts for repair costs under this program?
Given the need for homeowners to make minor repairs without exhausting personal savings, and in consideration of the increasing cost of materials, the minimum repair cost of $5,000 is eliminated and the ceiling is now raised to $35,000. This revised maximum repair/rehabilitation amount recognizes the cost of making older homes more energy efficient. When the repairs exceed $15,000, the mortgagee must perform or obtain an inspection to determine that all listed repairs were completed.

Can this program be used for repairs and improvements on purchases of HUD Homes?
Like the regular Section 203(k) program, Streamlined (k) may be used for single-family housing sold by HUD. REO properties that have been designated by FHA’s Management and Marketing contractor (M&M) as “insurable” with repair escrow ($5,000 or less in required repairs) or “uninsurable” (with more than $5,000 but no more than $35,000 in required repairs) are eligible for the Streamlined (k) program provided that the repairs qualify as eligible work items as outlined.

Advanced Restoration is a full service property damage restoration company that specializes in the rehabilitation & restoration of homes and businesses. The company is family-owned and operated with a combined 75 years experience in dealing with Fire Damage Restoration, Water Damage Restoration, Flood & Storm Damage, Mold Remediation, Smoke Damage Restoration and Reconstruction. We service Long Island (Nassau County, NY; Suffolk County, NY) and the New York Metro area.

For more information on how Advanced Restoration can partner with you, please contact Gary Matzelle at (516) 903-4107, or send an email to gmatzelle@advancedrestoration.com.
Please visit our Website: http://www.advancedrestoration.com/

Smoke Alarm & CO Alarm Battery Notification

2009-03-09T17:05:00.014-04:00

Source: USCPSC

U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission
Office of Information and Public Affairs
Washington, DC 20207

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

March 6, 2009Release #09-144
CPSC Recall Hotline: (800) 638-2772CPSC Media Contact: (301) 504-7908

Replace Smoke and CO Alarm Batteries This Sunday for Daylight Saving Time

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is urging consumers to replace their smoke alarm and carbon monoxide (CO) alarm batteries this Sunday as clocks are turned ahead for Daylight Saving Time.

“Safeguard your family by putting new batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms this weekend,” said CPSC’s Acting Chairman Nancy Nord. “Properly working smoke and CO alarms can alert you to a fire or poisonous carbon monoxide in your home and give you valuable escape time.”

An estimated annual average of 378,700 fires, 2,740 deaths, 13,090 injuries and $5.6 billion in property losses associated with residential fires were reported by fire departments from 2003 through 2005.

Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless, poisonous gas that consumers cannot see or smell. There was an annual average of 171 unintentional non-fire CO poisoning deaths associated with consumer products from 2003 through 2005.

CPSC recommends consumers replace the batteries in their smoke and CO alarms annually and test the alarms monthly. Smoke alarms should be on every level of the home, outside sleeping areas and inside each bedroom. CO alarms should be installed on each level of the home and outside sleeping areas. CO alarms should not be installed in attics or basements unless they include a sleeping area. Combination smoke and CO alarms are available to consumers.

CPSC recommends consumers follow these safety tips:
Never leave cooking equipment unattended.
Have a professional inspect home heating, cooling, and water appliances annually.
Use caution with candles, lighters, matches, and smoking materials near upholstered furniture, mattresses, and bedding. Keep matches and lighters out of reach of young children.

Have a fire escape plan and practice it so family members know what to do and where to meet if there’s a fire in the home. Children and the elderly may sleep through or not react to the sound of the smoke alarm, so parents and caregivers should adjust their fire escape plan to help them escape the house in the event of a fire.

Never ignore an alarming CO alarm. It is warning you of a potentially deadly hazard. If the alarm signal sounds do not try to find the source of the CO. Immediately move outside to fresh air. Call your emergency services, fire department, or 911.

Never use a portable generator indoors – including garages, basements, crawlspaces, and sheds. Opening doors and windows or using fans will not prevent CO buildup in the home.
During use, keep portable generators outdoors and far away from open doors, windows and vents, which can allow CO to build up indoors.

If you start to feel sick, dizzy or weak while using a generator, get to fresh air right away. The CO from generators can readily lead to full incapacitation and death.

Never use charcoal indoors. Burning charcoal in an enclosed space can produce lethal levels of carbon monoxide.

For more information, also visit http://www.firesafety.gov/, for fire safety information from CPSC and other federal agencies.

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Fire Recall Alert: Tealight Candleholders

2009-03-03T16:54:00.014-05:00

Tealight candles in the home provide a relaxing and tranquil environment for most of us, but proper safety precaution must always be followed to prevent fires. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission just released a fire hazard recall alert related to a specific tealight candle holder sold in the United States...

Source: CPSC

Recall Alert
U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission
Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207

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March 3, 2009
Alert #09-726

Seventh Avenue Recalls Tealight Candleholders Due to Fire Hazard
The following product safety recall was voluntarily conducted by the firm in cooperation with the CPSC. Consumers should stop using the product immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of Product: Tealight Candleholders

Units: About 430

Importer: Berkeley Designs, of Hawthorne, Calif.

Hazard: The faceted resin accents on the sides of the candleholder can ignite, posing a fire hazard.

Incidents/Injuries: Seventh Avenue has received one report of the candleholder igniting resulting in minor property damage. No injuries have been reported.

Description: This recall involves a wire formed tealight candleholder with ball feet. The sides have small and large round resin accents in amber and red. The holder holds up to five tealight candles (included). The model number is 609073 located on the original packaging.

Sold at: Seventh Avenue’s spring 2008 catalogs and online at www.seventhavenue.com from February 2008 through October 2008 for about $10.

Manufactured in: China

Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the candleholder and return it to Seventh Avenue for a full refund or store credit, and a $10 coupon. All known users have been contacted.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Seventh Avenue at (800) 991-4442 between 8 a.m. and 12 a.m. CT Monday through Friday, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.seventhavenue.com

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Advanced Restoration Corporation is a family-owned and operated full-service property damage restoration company with a combined 75 years experience in dealing with Fire Damage Restoration, Water Damage Restoration, Flood & Storm Damage, Mold Remediation, Smoke Damage Restoration and Reconstruction. We service Long Island (Nassau County, NY; Suffolk County, NY) and the New York Metro area.
When disasters strike, Advanced Restoration is ready to respond 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You are guaranteed to speak with one of our knowledgeable, caring team members, day or night. Call Us at (800) 693-6263.

Videogame Technology Helps With Disaster Planning

2009-02-23T12:03:00.000-05:00

Videogame Technology Helps With Disaster Planning
By Kristen Philipkoski 12 hours ago

Muttshack's David Friedman used Depiction to create this map, which he then used to coordinate animal rescue efforts during hurricane Gustav.

Thanks to disaster-simulation software inspired by videogames, David Friedman has a new family member: Jordan, a yellow Labrador retriever puppy. The software helped emergency workers in Louisiana rescue Jordan -- and 15,000 other stranded pets -- during Hurricane Gustav.

"Going by boat across a flooded field and parking lot, I saw this little yellow thing in a tree floating in the river," Friedman said, a disaster-response coordinator with animal-rescue organization Muttshack. "It was this little yellow puppy."

Volunteers like Friedman patched together an escape route for the animals using a disaster-preparedness simulator called Depiction. Friedman combined his amateur radio skills with simulations he had already created of the Baton Rouge area to map open roads, even without an internet connection. Volunteers picked up animals at 19 locations and coordinated 133 tractor trailers.

It's just one example of how disaster-modeling software can help responders create rescue plans in real time. During Katrina, some emergency workers used Google Earth Pro to map evacuation routes. Others have used MapPoint and XMap in crises.

But according to emergency workers, Depiction is the cheapest ($90, compared to $1,000 and up for other systems) and easiest to customize with local logistical information. The software can integrate aerial images from Google Earth or other sources, spreadsheet data, infrastructure maps and river-depth charts.

Depiction can be used to plan for disasters ahead of time, but it's also useful for collecting and organizing data during a crisis. Citizens can e-mail reports from the field, and emergency workers can feed other data directly into the software to find alternative routes when downed power lines, flood waters or landslides block roads.

"Because it has all these layers of data, with one program I can see all of my resources at once," said Friedman, a longtime emergency volunteer.

It's no coincidence that the software's birds-eye view sounds like something straight out of a computer-strategy game. Depiction founder Mike Geersten hails from Microsoft's games unit, where he was a product planner for Flight Simulator and later train sims.

When government agencies started asking to use Microsoft's simulation platform to depict real-life situations, Geersten saw a business opportunity. But getting the business plan approved within Microsoft was a bureaucratic challenge, so he set out on his own in 2005. He raised $1.5 million in angel funding and has gathered a staff of 14.

Geersten has seen his platform technology used in a variety of ways, and has heard suggestions for more. Depiction has helped Red Cross volunteers evacuate victims and get supplies and rescue teams to rural areas. It has tracked flooding along the Snohomish River. A potential investor imagined it could simulate salmon runs in the San Francisco Bay Area, which are at their lowest level in decades. In the video below, Depiction is used to predict the effect of rising sea levels on Manhattan.

Mike Dinn, a real estate consultant in Cincinnati, Ohio, believes Depiction will help mitigate the real estate crisis. By plugging in census, employment and other data, he's using Depiction to help banks decide what to do about newly acquired large properties. The software helps him guide developers trying to choose the best building locations.

"Depiction plus my background allows my clients for the first time to see like radar what these market positions are," Dinn said.

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Foreclosure House Repairs: Get a 203(k) Loan

2009-02-13T15:05:00.010-05:00

Foreclosures in Nassau County, Suffolk County and the NY Metro area continue to increase due to the struggling economy. As a result, some homes become neglected over time and develop situations that subsquently require a restoration company to perform repair work. Initiating necessary foreclosure repairs for a property can be accomplished by a potential homeowner applying for a mortgage related to the 203(k) Program.

203(k) Mortgage
The Federal Housing Administration (FHA), which is part of the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), administers various single family mortgage insurance programs like a 203(k) mortgage. These programs operate through FHA-approved lending institutions which submit applications to have the property appraised and have the buyer's credit approved. These lenders fund the mortgage loans which the Department insures. HUD does not make direct loans to help people buy homes.

One Mortgage Loan
When a homebuyer wants to purchase a house in need of repair or modernization, the homebuyer usually has to obtain financing first to purchase the dwelling; additional financing to do the rehabilitation construction; and a permanent mortgage when the work is completed to pay off the interim loans with a permanent mortgage. Often the interim financing (the acquisition and construction loans) involves relatively high interest rates and short amortization periods.

The Section 203(k) program was designed to address this situation. The borrower can get just one mortgage loan, at a long-term fixed (or adjustable) rate, to finance both the acquisition and the rehabilitation of the property. To provide funds for the rehabilitation, the mortgage amount is based on the projected value of the property with the work completed, taking into account the cost of the work. To minimize the risk to the mortgage lender, the mortgage loan (the maximum allowable amount) is eligible for endorsement by HUD as soon as the mortgage proceeds are disbursed and a rehabilitation escrow account is established. At this point the lender has a fully-insured mortgage loan.

Advanced Restoration Corporation is a full service property damage restoration company that has the abiltiy to execute all necessary repairs to a property that qualifies for a 203(k) loan.

For more information on FHA 203(k) loans and how Advanced Restoration can partner with you, please contact Gary Matzelle at (800) 693-6263.

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Our company is dedicated to serving our clients with courteous and prompt service. We take the utmost pride in the craftsmanship of our work. As certified specialists in water mitigation and fire/smoke restoration, we have the knowledge, expertise and experience to deal with all types of property damage. Our professional staff is also trained in all aspects of mold remediation and damage appraisals.

Fire/Burn Hazard Recall Alert

2009-02-10T15:13:00.009-05:00

FIRE HAZARD/BURN HAZARD RECALL ALERT
Have You Recently Purchased a Halogen Lamp at Staples?

Source: USPC

U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission
Office of Information and Public Affairs
Washington, DC 20207

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE February 10, 2009 Release #09-124
Firm's Recall Hotline: (866) 949-8567CPSC Recall Hotline: (800) 638-2772CPSC Media Contact: (301) 504-7908

Catalina Lighting Recalls Halogen Clamp Lamps Due to Fire and Burn Hazard; Sold Exclusively At Staples Stores

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of Product: Halogen Clamp Lamps

Units: About 2,000

Manufacturer: Catalina Lighting Inc., of Miami, Fla.

Hazard: The UV glass lens on the lamp can crack, exposing the halogen bulb, posing a fire and burn hazard.

Incidents/Injuries: Catalina Lighting has received 65 reports of broken lenses. No injuries have been reported.

Description: The halogen clamp lamps, also known as architect’s lamp, have 150 watt halogen bulb, an articulating arm, and a clamp desk lamp that adjusts up, down and swivels. Only lamps with model number 13456-US and lot numbers C06081581V185, C06081582V185 and C06081584V185 are included in the recall.

Sold at: Staples retail stores nationwide from July 2008 through October 2008 for about $50.
Manufactured in: China

Remedy: Consumer should immediately stop using the recalled lamp and contact Catalina Lighting to receive a free replacement lens.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Catalina Lighting toll-free at (866) 949-8567 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday or visit the firm’s Web site at www.catalinalighting.com

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Advanced Restoration Corporation is a family-owned and operated full-service property damage restoration company with a combined 75 years experience in dealing with Fire Damage Restoration, Water Damage Restoration, Flood & Storm Damage, Mold Remediation, Smoke Damage Restoration and Reconstruction. We service Long Island (Nassau County, NY; Suffolk County, NY) and the New York Metro area.

When disasters strike, Advanced Restoration is ready to respond 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You are guaranteed to speak with one of our knowledgeable, caring team members, day or night. Our immediate response to a claim/property loss helps minimize the damages to the structure, contents, and ease the sometime catastrophic effect that a disaster may have on an owner or occupants.

Our company is dedicated to serving our clients with courteous and prompt service. We take the utmost pride in the craftsmanship of our work. As certified specialists in water mitigation and fire/smoke restoration, we have the knowledge, expertise and experience to deal with all types of property damage. Our professional staff is also trained in all aspects of mold remediation and damage appraisals.

If you have questions related to fire and smoke damage restoration, please call us at (800)693-6263.

Fire Hazard: Oil-Fired Furnace Recall Alert

2009-02-02T14:12:00.013-05:00

The Consumer Product Safety Commission recently published Release #09-104, which focuses on a recall related to oil-fired furnaces that may result in a fire hazard.

Source: CPSC

NEWS from CPSC
U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission
Office of Information and Public Affairs
Washington, DC 20207
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE January 22, 2009 Release #09-104
Firm's Recall Hotline: (800) 577-3960CPSC Recall Hotline: (800) 638-2772CPSC Media Contact: (301) 504-7908

Rheem Recalls to Repair Oil-Fired Furnaces Due to Fire Hazard
WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of Product: Rheem, Ruud and United Refrigeration Oil-Fired Furnaces

Units: About 14,000

Manufacturer: Air Conditioning Division of Rheem Manufacturing Co., of Fort Smith, Ark.

Hazard: If the furnace is not properly wired, the oil burner can continue to operate when the blower shuts off, posing a fire hazard to consumers.

Incidents/Injuries: Rheem has received one report in which the furnace was incorrectly wired. No injuries or property damage have been reported.

Description: This recall involves oil-fired furnaces sold under the Rheem, Ruud and United Refrigeration brands. Only the models beginning with the model numbers listed in the chart below and with date codes ending in 0106 through 5206, 0107 through 5207, or 0108 through 4808 are included in this recall. The model number and date code (designated by the four digits following an “M” in the middle of the serial number) are printed on the unit’s rating plate, which is on the left wall of the furnace’s interior just above the burner. The rating plate can be found by opening the unit’s burner access door, which has slotted openings.

See Model Number/ Brand & Description

ROBF
Rheem Classic/Ruud Achiever High Efficiency Upflow Oil Furnace
ROPF
Rheem Classic/Ruud Achiever High Efficiency Downflow/Horizontal Oil Furnace
TZOUP
United Refrigeration “Thermal Zone” Upflow Oil Furnace
TZODH
United Refrigeration “Thermal Zone” Downflow/ Horizontal Oil Furnace

Sold by:

Contractors nationwide to consumers from January 2006 through December 2008 as part of installed systems for between $1,500 and $10,000.

Manufactured in: United States

Remedy: Consumers should immediately contact the contractor who installed the oil furnace to arrange for a free inspection and repair, if necessary.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Rheem at (800) 577-3960 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. CT Monday through Friday, or visit the firm’s Web site at

www.rheemac.com.
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About Us

Advanced Restoration Corporation is a family-owned and operated full-service property damage restoration company with a combined 75 years experience in dealing with Fire Damage Restoration, Water Damage Restoration, Flood & Storm Damage, Mold Remediation, Smoke Damage Restoration and Reconstruction. We service Long Island (Nassau County, NY; Suffolk County, NY) and the New York Metro area. Call (800) 693- 6263 for additional information, or visit us on the web at www.AdvancedRestoration.com.