Advanced Restoration Receives a 2009 Constant Contact All Star Award

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

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

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...

Protect Yourself From Water Damage and Floods

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.

Basement Flooding/Heavy Rains in NY

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.

Disaster Kleenup International Is Hurricane Ready!

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.

Advanced Restoration: Water Problem Solvers

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!

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/.

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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?

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.

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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.

Who Will Be Open For Business if Disaster Strikes?

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.

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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.

Own It...Then Make It Your Own

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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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. Have us renovate your next home!

Water Damage, Floods & Heavy Rains Pummel NY!

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

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.
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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?

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.

What is a Certified Restorer?

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.

______________________________________

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.

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.

Streamlined 203 (k) Loan: Repairs/Foreclosure

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/

Flooding/Water Damage Restoration

Do You Have Flooding/Water Damage in Your Home, Office or Business?

When a pipe bursts, the damage to your home or business can be devastating. Knowing who to call for this type of situation is essential to ensure emergency water mitigation efforts are handled timely and properly by trained experts.

If you had recent storm or water damage from frozen pipes, one call to Advanced Restoration will ensure your property structure is mitigated properly. Our professional staff is ready to provide you 24/7 Emergency Service throughout the New York Metro area!

Reduce your claim costs by hundreds, even thousands of $$$. Our equipment allows us to dry wet hardwood floors (or any hardsurface floor) by using our Injectidry Systems. Injectidry's Vac-It Panels are placed directly over the wet area and the system (HP60) pulls the water out of the wood or hardsurface!

Injectidry's High Pressure drying systems are specifically developed to target high risk areas of hidden moisture such as: walls and ceilings, double-sheeted fire walls, party walls, sound barriers, insulation, walls behind cabinets and fixtures and floors.

Benefits of Using Advanced Restoration and Injectidry Technology

• In most cases, the floors will dry beneath refrigerators and stoves without moving appliances.
  Many of the floors do not even need to be refinished.


• Floors do not sit wet and cupped for 3-9 months while nails rust and mold grows underneath.
  Continue to use the premise (home, office, business) during the drying process.


• Reduced claim costs.

Advanced Restoration is available for all your property restoration and reconstruction needs.

Our staff is truly committed to Making Disaster Temporary and Restoration Permanent!

Advanced Restoration Corporation: Fire, Smoke, Water, Mold

Have You Encountered Property Damage to Your Home or Business?

We Are Prepared to Help...

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.

Customer Excellence:

Our staff is committed to providing outstanding service and exceeding customer expectations for every completed project. Our fully trained and experienced Project Managers, Technicians and state-of-the-art processes ensure we are ready to restore peace of mind to our customers. We provide immediate response to mitigate your property damage and take the necessary steps to ensure a successful restoration project.

See Completed Projects

Our Clients:

Homeowners
Business Owners
Insurance Professionals
Real Estate Professionals
Property Management Professionals

Winter Storm/Property Damage: Ice Dams and Your Home

Snow is expected this weekend on Long Island and the NY Metro area and the Weather Service has issued a WINTER STORM WARNING for the area. Whenever there is snow, you are guaranteed 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.

Preventing Ice Dams
To prevent an ice dam, don't heat the roof, keep it cold. That way, the snow on the roof eventually dissipates without making large amounts of meltwater. The underside of the roof deck should not exceed 30 F. The best way to maintain low temperatures is by ensuring that there is adequate insulation and sealing gaps that let warm air pass into the attic from the house. The attic must also be ventilated, so that cold air is introduced into it and heated air escapes rapidly. Some remodeling contractors are under the impression that heat passing through the attic helps prevent ice dams, when just the opposite is true. Although excess heat moving from the attic through the roof rapidly melts snow, once the meltwater touches the cold eaves, it quickly freezes and forms an ice dam.

If you have a furnace in the attic, it may not be possible to prevent ice dams. Increased insulation, however, should help. First, insulate the areas between the roof rafters. It is important to keep an air space between the roof deck and the insulation in order to prevent a condensation buildup that can delaminate the roof deck. Prior to insulating, install polystyrene rafter air channels, which are available at home centers. Next, lay insulation blankets over the furnace's heating ducts to help reduce the heat buildup in the attic. If there's a hatchway into the attic, build a cover for it out of rigid poly-styrene insulation.

If the gable and ridge vents do not generate sufficient air movement to dissipate the heat, you will need a motorized vent at one end of the attic to exhaust the heat, and an adequately sized vent on the opposite end of the attic to draw in cold air from the outside.

Check your home carefully when ice dams form. Investigate even when there doesn't appear to be a leak. Look at the underside of the roof sheathing and roof trim to make sure they haven't gotten wet. Check the insulation for dampness. And when leaks inside your home develop, be prepared. Water penetration often follows pathways difficult follow. Don't just patch the roof leak. Make sure that the roof sheathing hasn't rotted or that other less obvious problems in your ceiling or walls haven't developed. And then detail a comprehensive plan to fix the damage. But more importantly, solve the problem.

If you experience water damage that requires a water damage/flood restoration expert, please contact Advanced Restoration at (800) 693-6263. Advanced Restoration is a full service property damage restoration company that can respond 24/7 to your water damage situation. We use state-of-the-art equipment to handle structural drying. Our professional staff is also available to handle mold situations that may occur as a result of a water loss.

Our service area includes Nassau County, Suffolk County and the New York boroughs.

Enjoy the snowfall and stay dry!

Puffbacks and Your Heating System

Ensure Your Heating System is Working Properly!

Winter is here and so is the cold weather, which means your heating system will be working around the clock. Now is the season when you may experience a puffback related to your heating system.

What is a puffback?

Most of us have never heard of a puffback. A puffback occurs when an oil burner backfires, sending soot throughout your home or business. It can happen all at once, or more slowly and gradually.

Soot covers all areas of the home or business & may range from light to very heavy. Sometimes the disbursement of soot is so light & fine it appears to be ordinary dust. This "dust" however, can re-appear hours after being cleaned, there is often a strong odor of oil accompanying a puffback.

How can a puffback be prevented?

The best defense against a puffback is to have your oil burner inspected annually & kept in good repair. This is no guarantee against having a puffback, but it greatly reduces your risk.Keep debris, animal hair or anything that could interfere with proper functioning away from your oil burner.

What to do if a puffback occurs?

Notify your insurance agent or company immediately. Have a qualified disaster restoration specialist begin cleaning all affected areas immediately. Soot travels & will re-appear if not completely removed.

If you live in the NY Metro area and experience a puffback in your home or business, please call

Advanced Restoration. Our experts will promptly respond to your situation! Our experienced staff is available 24/7 and can be reached at (800) 693-6263, or visit our website at http://www.advancedrrestoration.com/.