Allkare blog

Leak Detection, Trace & Access and Complete Thermography Services...

Tue, 06 Mar 2012 14:44:00 GMT

The First Defence In Effective Leak Management Because a leak can occur at any time and in any place around your home or business premises, FAST action is needed to prevent further damage from occurring.

It’s not the obvious leaks that cause the most amount of disruption, it’s the ones that are hidden or not easy to detect.

Allkare provides a complete leak detection service using the latest Infrared thermal camera technology. This can quickly detect leaking pipes and hidden damp for effective and rapid treatment.

WHAT IS INFRARED THERMOGRAPHY?

Infrared thermography is the discipline concerned with the acquisition, storage and analysis of radiated energy using a thermal imaging camera system. Building thermography is the measurement and mapping of temperature differences in buildings using infrared methods. Although it is very easy to point a camera and see “something” in a thermal image, the skill of the thermographer is to ensure the thermal image is taken correctly, in known conditions, and to decipher what can be inferred from the image. Hence, training is very important: when/when not to use a camera; how to use a camera; how to interpret the image obtained. All of Allkare’s franchises have gone through an intensive training program from IBS ltd and have been certified to the highest standards available on the market today.

WHY USE INFRARED?

A picture says a thousand words; infrared thermography is the only diagnostic technology that lets you instantly visualise and verify thermal performance. It is a non-destructive means to locate problems, verify building performance and validate solutions. Infrared thermography can provide remarkable information about construction details and building performance related to design, construction and maintenance. Thermography uses the same methods and principles within residential, industrial and commercial buildings regardless of the building type.

Infrared Thermography is an increasingly well known and respected method of imaging and evaluating the thermal efficiency of building insulation, doors, windows and other penetrations, as well as the efficiency and condition heating and air conditioning/cooling systems. It is the best way to visualize water intrusion, water damage, leaking pipes buried within the building system and is able to identify hidden systems within the building envelope.

Minimal Disruption Saves You Money

Our Infrared cameras can quickly isolates leaks even those deeply buried under floors, concrete, walls, ceilings, exterior building components and roofing. Because we know exactly where the leak is we only have to access a small area to locate and effectively fix it for you. We make sure there is minimal disruption and inconvenience to you during this time and clear, tidy and clean the area to leave it in the condition you’d expect from the reputable professionals.

We significantly reduce the extent of damage, major mould and structural damage occurring in your home or business premises for total peace of mind.

Our leak detention services will help you with:
- Damp proof failures
- Rain penetration
- Condensation
- Mould growth
- Missing, damaged, and/or wet insulation
- Heat loss and air infiltration in walls, ceilings, floors, windows and doors
- Energy loss and efficiency
- Water leaks and moisture intrusion
- Roof leaks
- Electrical faults (e.g. overloaded /undersized circuits, faulty circuit breakers)
- Plumbing, heating, ventilation and air conditioner system leaks and performance
- Damaged and/or malfunctioning radiant heating systems
- Structural defects and hidden details
ADVANTAGES OF INFRARED/THERMAL IMAGING BUILDING DIAGNOSIS
- Fast, noninvasive, safe - minimises need for building disassembly
- Finds moisture sources and structural problems quickly
- Locate heating and cooling losses with high accuracy
- Minimise disturbance of occupants and building operations
- Ensure personal safety - keep away from hot or dangerous areas
- Survey buildings or elements from a distance with no access equipment
- Document as-built or post-repair/restoration conditions
- Fast evaluation and verification as to the cause of loss and to the extent of damage
- And many more…

Tracking Down More Than Just Moisture Problems...

Wed, 29 Feb 2012 17:00:00 GMT

Tracking Down More than Just Moisture Problems
By Michael Eggman
There is a lot of information available on the time, cost and benefits of using infrared (IR) thermograph to inspect buildings in order to trace the source and scope of water damage, and thus potential mold. In addition, IR thermal imaging is extremely fast, noninvasive and provides evidentiary-quality, intuitively understandable data that have a much higher degree of accuracy and reliability than other moisture detection technologies. But moisture detection is only one of a number of ways that IR cameras can earn their keep by helping cleaning and restoration professionals locate and diagnose a broad range of building related issues, both existing or potentially to become a problem.

That’s important for smaller operators whose volume might make the typical return on investment of less than a year somewhat longer if they were to rely on using the camera solely for moisture detection projects.

How Infrared Thermograph/ Works

Thermograph enables us to see and measure heat. All materials on earth emit heat energy in the infrared portion of the spectrum. Unfortunately, the unaided human eye cannot see in the infrared. Thermo graphic, or simply thermal, images allow the user to see thermally, revealing anomalies that in turn identify problems in buildings and their component electrical, mechanical, plumbing and waterproofing systems.

Today's lightweight and rugged infrared cameras can-no: only see in real-time, but can also record infrared images and measure the temperatures of target objects quite accurately—to within 1/10 of a Fahrenheit degree or better. Points of possible concern show up clearly as hot or cold in relation the surrounding non-affected areas. An IR camera can record the thermal images, which then can be easily inserted into reports and e-mailed, greatly facilitating communications among trades, insurance companies, adjusters, attorneys and other professionals and also serving as invaluable, rational, evidentiary data in cases involving controversy.

The following are actual examples of how cleaning and restoration professionals are “exploiting” their infrared cameras to assess energy efficiency; reveal construction defects; inspect electrical, mechanical and HVAC systems; find roof leaks; perform post-disaster inspections and much more—maximizing their value as a business asset. As you’ll see, the uses for infrared are limited only by the imagination of the user.

Energy efficiency inspections, An IR camera can quickly and non-destructively detect areas of missing, moisture-laden or otherwise damaged insulation in walls, crawlspaces and attics or around doors, windows, electrical outlets and other access places. All of these problems can increase a building’s energy costs by allowing cold air to enter the building and heated air to escape in the winter, and the reverse in the warmer summer months. IR can also identify poorly or un-insulated pipes, another source of costly heat loss.

Blower Doors are used for to detect air infiltration and/or exfiltration in a building for the assessment of air leaks and energy loss. A blower door inspection used in conjunction with a infrared inspection of a building envelope for energy loss involves the use or pressurization or depressurization of the structure to determine air leakage, which in turn often helps locate points of water damage as well.

Construction defects can also be easily identified as well. The increased use of EIFS (Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems) and stone, stucco, brick veneers and siding as facades on residential as well as commercial buildings invites the possibility of water intrusion if they are not properly installed. IR can detect or verify moisture infiltration in these weatherproofing “barrier” systems, which are usually the result of insufficient detailing such as inadequate or improperly applied flashing or sealants. These are the cause of many “mystery” leaks that are virtually impossible to find without an IR camera, which can reveal moisture migration paths within the walls, floors and ceilings.

Infrared cameras are very effective at looking at electrical, mechanical, and HVAC/R systems. They can detect

overloaded circuits, faulty wiring and loose electrical connections, which generate heat and can pose serious fire hazards. IR can detect thin spots in furnace heat exchangers and flues; mechanical problems such as worn, under-lubricated pumps, motors and bearings in fans, compressors and furnaces; electrical faults; refrigerant

leaks and blockages in HVAC/R components.

Roof leaks can cause costly damage to a building’s contents and discomfort to its inhabitants. An infrared inspection can quickly identify missing or moisture-soaked insulation under a flat roof membrane where the insulation needs replacement, permitting the surgical repair of failed areas rather than the much more costly replacement of the entire roof.

Roofing IR inspection Is best conducted after sunset, since the wet areas retain the heal absorbed during the clay longer than the surrounding dry areas, causing a temperature difference that can be imaged, with the wet areas showing up as hot spots. IR can also be used to inspect roof decks from inside a building, a highly effective approach when working with metal and ballasted roofing systems, which are difficult or impossible co
inspect from above. In this case, inspection can be performed shortly after sunrise, when the wet areas of the underside of the roof warm up more slowly than dry areas and show up as cold spots. Such anomalies are easily imaged with currently available lightweight, handheld IR cameras, which can discern temperature differences down to 0.08 of a Fahrenheit degree.

In extremely cold areas of the country, ice damming, the result of snow or ice that melts at the top of the roof and then refreezes when it flows down to the cold eves sections, can pose a serious safety hazard to pedestrians and vehicles below. To combat it, the “cold roof design” system is intended to provide uniform and consistent constant-flow ventilation across the roofs sheathed surface.

“An IR camera can effectively evaluate deficient conditions in a cold roof system by measuring temperature differentials indicative of heat loss that can result in heated sheathing surfaces that allow snow to melt and subsequent ice damming.

Companies that specialize in forensic and construction defect engineering say “IR can also be utilized to ceck for dead spots and insufficient coverage of ice melting systems used to prevent the freezing of gutters and downspouts. And Infrared can be used to inspect interior and exterior in-floor radiant heat systems used, respectively, for heating interior floors and for melting snow and ice on outside walks and driveways, thereby
eliminating the need for shoveling and reducing the risk of slips and falls.”

Post-casualty inspections of fires using IR can quickly locate remnant hot spots, assuring that the fire is completely extinguished and providing invaluable data for insurance companies’ Cause and Origin investigations. The clear IR images of normally invisible diagnostic evidence and can assist in the planning and execution of the restoration effort and in the settlement process. After flooding, IR can quickly assess the extent of water damage and enhance the drying process by rendering the wet portion of materials visible.

Pest inspections are just another way IR can be used to help identify termites and bee infestation. Although considered cold-blooded creatures, termite’s are hosts to bacteria, which help break down and digest cellulose, the main ingredient of the wood they digest. The digestion process generates heat, and when large numbers of termites in nests congregate, a substantial amount of heat is concentrated in one area. An IR camera can detect this heat non-invasively as it’s conveyed to the surface of walls or floors and then
facilitate corrective action.

There are many instances where an infrared camera will find problems that the cleaning and restoration professional wasn’t necessarily looking for. Such serendipitous findings can only enhance the contractor’s reputation and standing with his or her client and reinforce the business relationship.

One such find occurred when a Fire Damage Restoration company was called in to document the water damage for insurance purposes at the site of a serious electrical fire at a garment dyeing facility. In addition to the wet walls, which had been soaked by the sprinkler system and fire department hoses, The IR camera found an unexpected thermal anomaly, an excessive heat source within a closed 32-gallon drum containing sodium hydrosulfate, used in the dyeing process. Some water had apparently penetrated the drum to produce poisonous hydrogen sulfide gas and enough heat to cause spontaneous combustion and a potentially explosive condition. A hazardous waste hauler was called in, and under the supervision of HAZMAT and local County Health Services, the drum was disposed of. Not only were they able to document the water damage, but we were able to help prevent a second-order catastrophe. It it hadn’t been for the camera, it’s quite
possible there would have been serious damage to person or property.

The eye of the beholder

Regardless of what an IR camera is used to look for or at, its effectiveness is dependent not only on the contractor’s skill in operating the camera, but also on knowledge and understanding of the component being inspected as well as the science involved in the assessment of the thermal evidence. The trained and experienced thermograph knows that not every hot or cold spot represents a problem, but may in fact reflect a component’s normal operation, performance or location in the structure. Alternatively, a thermal image may actually show heat from sources other than the target that is reflected from or transmitted through the target material. That’s why it’s often said in the industry that: “There are IR camera operators, and then there are thermographers.”

This type of equipment is not the only equipment needed to help in the investigation process, a good restoration contractor still needs moisture meters and other types of test and measurement equipment in their tool bag. What IR does provide to the contractors is a tool that can provide a faster way to identify the problems, a faster way to assess the loss, a better and more effective way to direct the crews on placement of equipment and to be able to dry the structure better, faster and document those facts. This also allows contractors to provide relevant and clear documentation to their clients in a more precise and professional manor.

Industry complaint rate increasing...

Thu, 23 Feb 2012 11:36:00 GMT

As the insurance companies are reducing the rates given to building contractors to settle property damage claims the quality of works is becoming increasingly poor. This is because the contractor has to cut corners just to cover his overheads.

For interesting reading please see the following source:

http://www.consumeractiongroup.co.uk/forum/showthread.php?294074-Davies-Group

Are insurance companies settling claims too cheaply?

Thu, 23 Feb 2012 11:34:00 GMT

It has become apparent over the last 18 months that the insurance companies are using loss adjusters whose role it is to settle your claim as cheaply as possible.
A loss adjuster will also try to cash settle your claim basing this on a quoted estimate and then deducting 30% as a cash settlement fee. For interesting reading please see the following sources:

http://www.postonline.co.uk/post/news-analysis/1740882/insurance-360-loss-adjusting-loss-leaders

200,000 homes in England and Wales could be left without flood insurance cover

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 13:23:00 GMT

The insurance industry's voluntary flood agreement with the government is due to end in June 2013 which means over 200,000 home in England and Wales will struggle to get adequate flood insurance.

The current agreement with the government states that insurance companies must provide flood insurance as standard for properties built before 1 January 2009 for low risk homes and high risk homes have the right to automatically renew their policy under the current insurer as long as flood defences are planned to be in place within 5 years.

To read the full article please click here

What is a Loss Assessor?

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 13:20:00 GMT

A Loss Assessor acts on behalf of the policyholder when making an insurance claim to ensure the policyholder gets the best possible settlement.

The Institute of Public Loss Assessors states that you should appoint a Loss Assessor as soon as you need to make a claim, for further information please click here

If you need to appoint a Loss Assessor call Allkare on 0800 731 9121

ABI says 200,000 homes at flooding risk

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 10:56:00 GMT

The BBC has published a new article today showing how 200,000 homes may be at risk of flooding as mentioned by the Association of British Insurers (ABI).

The 200,000 homes have been identified as having a high risk of flooding when a government agreement ends next year.

Allkare help dry out flood damaged and water damaged properties in days rather than the industry average weeks. For more information, please see the Allkare Property Drying Out website or call us on 0800 731 9121.

To read the BBC article, please click here.

Loss Assessors

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 10:45:00 GMT

Loss assessors help you to get a better settlement from your insurance company when making an insurance claim. If disaster strikes and you need to make an insurance claim, you should enlist the help of your own insurance loss assessor as soon as possible. Allkare Group are specialist insurance loss assessors with 30 years' experience in handling insurance claims. Providing you with expert help and maximising your insurance claim entitlement is our business.

Allkare Associates work for you, and not for your insurance company. Your insurance company has a team of specialists whose job it is to ensure that the insurance company makes the minimum payouts necessary when dealing with your case. Mistakes will be expensive: instruct Allkare Associates loss assessors to look after your interests.

Your insurance cover - and making your insurance claim

When the worst happens and you are the victim of fire, flood or storm damage - or theft - you may think that you can turn to your insurer because you're covered, and your insurance policy will pay for any loss and damage to your property. Think again!

Introducing your insurance company's Loss Adjuster

Experience shows that it is never that simple; both businesses and private individuals find that insurance companies immediately appoint a loss adjuster whose job is to investigate the insurance claim, check the small print, and - more often than not - reduce the amount the insurance company is to pay you.

Who can help you to make sure that your insurance claim is maximised?

When you need to make an insurance claim, you are usually in a vulnerable state of mind. If you are not thinking clearly about the best way to pursue your insurance claim, mistakes may be very costly indeed!

When you make an insurance claim, whether it be domestic or business, it is strongly recommended that you contact Allkare Group insurance claims assessors for help at the earliest opportunity. Of course the best time to contact us is right at the outset, as soon as the loss has occurred and before you enter a claim: setting the claim strategy at the outset is fundamental to maximising your entitlement.

If your home has been burgled or your business has been hit by theft, contact us immediately so that we can help to ensure your insurance company gives you the settlement you deserve.

Making an insurance claim for flood damage

If you need to make an insurance claim for flood damage to your home or business premises, call us now. Insurance companies are doing the best they can to pay out as little as possible for flood damage claims. We can help you to get the insurance settlement you deserve if a flood has brought chaos into your life.

Call us immediately and one of our insurance loss assessors will be happy to help you.

Don't settle for anything less

http://www.allkarepropertydryingout.co.uk/services/insurance-claim-
specialists.html

Peter Hargreaves 01695 559767

Allkare Disaster Restoration Franchise

Thu, 27 Jan 2011 11:32:00 GMT

The Allkare Disaster Restoration franchise is one of the Nation's foremost franchise organizations with over 7 independently owned and operated franchisees. Since our inception as Allkare in 1999, the Allkare Restoration network of contractors has been an innovative leader in the areas of accelerated property damage mitigation, drying times are measured in days rather than the Industry norm of weeks, asbestos testing, asbestos removal, loss asses soring, contents cleaning and full property repairs. We work across the United Kingdom serving our residential and commercial customers and clients. We have built our heritage one project at a time establishing a reputation for performance, integrity, and responsibility.

We believe that our network is built upon the value of delivering what is promised and that our resiliency is based on our unceasing quest for continuous improvement. We are an organization that turns crisis into calm. .

Allkare use thermal energy drying systems as a matter of course and because of the training and drying equipment we use our drying times are very much reduced.Our aim is to get you, the customer life back to normal.We can deal with your Insurance Company directly on your behalf and our service is absolutely free of charge to you

Our heritage is one of imagination and of learning through experience. Our franchise network focuses on delivering services into the communities, towns and cities of the United Kingdom, having created a synergy of excellence, expertise and experience that is second to none. Our passion for quality drives everything we do.

Our story is one of our people, our products, and most importantly, our customers. We have no business, and no tomorrow, without our customers. Our story is the story of us together.
www.allkarefranchising.co.uk

Carpet Cleaning Manchester

Sat, 15 Jan 2011 08:31:00 GMT

We provide carpet cleaning services to the commercial and residential sectors within Manchester. The Clean House Company carpet cleaners are fully trained and highly motivated in professional carpet cleaning and stain removal. We use state of the art cleaning equipment and techniques to ensure your carpets retain their appearance and colour.

http://www.allkarecarpetcleaning.co.uk/manchester.html

Loss Adjuster V Signed Mandate

Sat, 15 Jan 2011 08:28:00 GMT

Loss adjuster V Signed Mandate

I would like to chair the following situation to see if any members can share their experience. Following the last couple of weeks bad weather we received a large amount of calls from policy holders who could not get through to their Insurance Company so asked Allkare to attend to their and put drying equipment in. In all cases to the Insurance company and explained what we were doing and received the go ahead verbally. We also have a signed mandate from the policy holder

We are now taking calls from the policy holder s telling us that as a Loss Adjuster has been we are to take out our drying equipment , the loss adjuster giving no other reason than that they must use the Insurance Companies approved contractors – in this case Rainbow or Chem-Dry.

We have installed desiccant drying systems so have achieved almost 60-70% of drying so my point is can a loss adjuster override an Insurance Company and also a signed mandate and insist that we remove our drying purely to use another contractor. I am assuming that the franchise operations are going to be cheaper as they have won the contracts on room rates

I think it is safe to also assume that the drying times are going to be extended as the majority of franchise operations are using traditional equipment in water damaged houses that have no heating

12 days ago

Like
Comment

JohnStop Following Follow John

John Toms • 1. The Policyholder is your customer, and is the only person who can authorise work here, regardless of national connections.
2. Franchise operations are not used by Insurers because they are inexpensive; I am sure there are plenty of examples of cases where pretend drying goes on where it is not needed.
3. The specifics of your equipment versus someone else's is irrelevant; you have a signed mandate to proceed, from the Policyholder, and whether the Insurer 'verbally approved' or not is also irrelevant; the Policyholder is due to pay your account, and whether they get paid from the Insurer or not is also irrelevant.

The Loss Adjuster can ask the Policyholder to instruct you to remove your drying equipment. The Policyholder, being your client, can instruct you accordingly. At that juncture, you must raise your invoice, addressed to the Policyholder, for payment. Story ended.

11 days ago

MikeStop Following Follow Mike

Mike Dean • Get the insurer to over-rule the adjuster - they are only following orders!

11 days ago

JohnStop Following Follow John

John Toms • Get the Policyholder to over-rule them both!

11 days ago

JeffStop Following Follow Jeff

Jeff Charlton • Mention to the loss adjuster that he is breaking the law. As John mentioned your contract is with the insured not the loss asdjuster or indeed the insurer.It is a fact which has been published by the FSA that insurers cannot nominate contractors of choice and that the policy holder has the ultimate decission. The usual threat by adjusters is "If you don't use nominated contractors insurers may not pay the full invoice if they could get it done cheaper by their nominated contractor or that chosen contractors won't offer guarantee".
This restrictive practice and support for a cartel cannot be substantiated and if as you state your work and results are better than most nominated contractors you should fight. Good luck.
I am in a similar position, a call on Christmas eve from a high net worth policyholder who said he could not get assistance from his insurer saw a loss adjuster turn up a week later and who thought there was almost no damage and that my reserve of 15K was too high.This conclusion in the wake of damage mitigation and speed drying typifies why the use of technology and competence is a waste of effort when you can rack up costs by incompetence which adjusters accept as the norm.

10 days ago

BlaineStop Following Follow Blaine

Blaine Parry • I would be curious to know the reasoning behind the adjuster's request or demand to have you pull your equipment. What is the true basis for this decision?

Does he/she think the property is "dry enough"? Perhaps the adjuster thinks your approach is "overkill" and unnecessary? Is there a chance to educate the adjuster on your approach as well as the fact that you were there for their policy holder when they were not?

In the States, this tortious interference is illegal and am sure there are laws in the UK that are similar?

10 days ago

• Peter Hargreaves • Thanks for all the advice but the reality is that the damage has already been done by the Adjuster from the Halifax. From a policy holders view point when faced with a possible repair bill of around £40000 they do feel that they have to go with what a loss adjuster has said.
However she is not at happy when I pointed out to her that she is now liable for our invoice payment and will be on the phone to her Insurance Company about this
Unbelievable the loss adjuster has instructed her to tell us to take out our equipment but not arranged for the drying to be completed by the preferred contractor. It would be interesting if any senior management from the Halifax would comment and explain why this sort of “project management” is deemed to be cost saving. I can say that the loss adjuster involved has not called me to explain his reasoning
Questions
If we have a signed mandate do we have to
• Do the job at the same price as the Insurance Companies preferred Contractor for drying
• In my experience the Insurance Company always takes the cheapest quotation however it is not based on a like for like basis. Ours are generally higher but we have picked up items that have been overlooked...how do others deal with this?
• What is the point of putting in desiccant/speed drying equipment if this is undermined by poor “project management”...I won’t bore everyone with traditional drying in cold temperatures but I would expect by now senior management level at Insurance Companies must know this is ineffective. Again it would be interesting to get a comment from this level to explain why a policy holder has to put up with noisy and inefficient equipment when the technology is here to do this in a fraction of the time and at not more cost

10 days ago

JohnStop Following Follow John

John Toms • 1. you don't need to agree to any rates; the rates are yours.
2. Forget all that nonesense; client pays for what you have done.
3. as per point 2.

Peter, this is the precise problem which experienced people have been going on about in this and other forums. Your client is the Policyholder (the one who signed the mandate). The Policyholder acted to mitigate the loss because her Insurer/Adjuster didn't act quickly enough. It's as simple as that.

By the way, is it a Loss Adjuster you are dealing with? Are you sure? Checked credentials?

10 days ago

MikeStop Following Follow Mike

Mike Burrows • If it was a Halifax adjuster then I'm guessing the policyholders insurance company was Halifax (part of Lloyds Banking Group). If this is the case I know the adjuster will either appoint a local builder (who is a Halifax contracted supplier) to do the drying and the reinstatement work, or, alternatively Polygon restoration company (formally Munters) would be able to install desiccant dehumidifiers. From my experience you should be able to charge for the work you have completed already at your rates. The Halifax supplier will charge their preferential rates and apply agreed procedures. If the policyholder was happy with what you were doing then they have the right to ask your services to be retained, although the cost of the drying would need to be competitive. The loss adjuster will try to select the most cost effective approach and reduce the amount of stripping out prior to reinstatement, and the builder will only commence his work once a drying certificate is supplied by the restoration company. (Polygon are sole suppliers to Halifax Insurance). Finally, franchised restoration companies are used by most of the top 10 UK property insurers. Hope this is of help.

9 days ago

JohnStop Following Follow John

John Kelly • This is an all too often scenario unfortunately. I believe most of the Halifax staff are claims advisors rather than qualified Loss Adjusters, I may be wrong.
They use a building company up in my neck of the woods and I am told they can only charge £35 per week for a dehumidifier and if they have been in for more than 2 weeks they demand to know why. After 17 years in this business I am dismayed that nothing at all has changed in that time despite the efforts of people like Jeff. If anything, things have got worse. By the way I am currently insured with Halifax but won't be renewing.

9 days ago

JamesStop Following Follow James

James Every • Peter, John Toms is absolutely right in his advice and good luck to you with your PH. They are so often frightened by adjusters who seem to be unable to take decisions that actually help to mitigate the loss. We are very fortunate to work for adjusters who listen to advice and support professional restoration at sensible prices, knowing that it is in the best interests of both the PH and the insurer to get it right. Do we achieve this 100% of the time? Probably not, but we believe that we are closer than many. Unfortunately when it comes to restoration the insurance industry is focused on price, not cost and they inevitably lose sight of the total claim cost. I could say so much more, but unfortunately am still at my desk sorting out claims...

8 days ago

JohnStop Following Follow John

John Toms • Do yourselves a favour: www.hiscox.com

8 days ago

Peter Hargreaves • Again thanks for all the advice the big lesson learnt is that it is never really good for business trying to lock horns with Insurance Companies as they are always right

A mere comment by a loss adjuster saying that They are not an approved Contractor for the Halifax is probaly enough to frighten most potential customers. The fact we work for most other networks is not relevant!!

7 days ago

SuzetteStop Following Follow Suzette

Suzette End • I have a question regarding warranty on work performed to date...who is the responsible contractor if the structure was not dried properly... as a restoration company I have a waiver of liability signed should we be asked to remove equipment before our work was completed.
This is unfortunately the perils of being in the Insurable Peril Restoration Industry.

6 days ago

JohnStop Following Follow John

John Kelly • If you have been instructed to remove equipment before the structure has been dried to a safe condition then it is imperative to have a document stating this and have the instructing party sign and date it. Until that is signed our equipment stays put.

6 days ago

AndyStop Following Follow Andy

Andy Habbershaw • I've lost count on the number of times that I've heard these comments. Insurers have 'commoditised" the industry, managing down prices are that leave little room for reasonable and fair profit. By commoditising a claim, the procurement experts have worked out how many p/h's, how many claims, the average value of the claim etc etc..
so, they can average out costs and work out margins...

The result is many "busy fools" (also known as National DM contractors) working to pay their overdrafts. Neither Adjusters or the leading DM contractors have the balls to stand up and pull the plug on the insurer. Good luck to them all! I've set my prices and they can take them or leave them - and more fool those Insurers or Adjusters if they don't take advantage of our services. I don't care a shit! 95% of my work is from non insurance /adjuster sources and I like it that way AND when the Adjuster does comes bleating to me that my prices have been checked by their preferred supplier and are considered "high' (by that contractors managed down standard") and that they won't pay all the bill, I take great pleasure and pull no punches in spelling out to them why they WILL end up paying my bill - despite their bleating, they end up paying - why? because the client has engaged us, they were given copies of our price lists and I can show that our actions have mitigated the loss and that our prices are regularly accepted and paid by Insurers. NOT ALL CARS ARE THE SAME!

Ask yourselves, the policyholder has a duty in law to mitigate the loss. The contractor also has a duty: Does the Insurers or adjuster? I would have thought yes but their actions show otherwise. (they endorse wholesale stripout which increases re instatement costs and other actions such as ineffective drying which helps increase A/A or BI).

It seems to me that we should all stop doing insurance work- here s another observation- It is claimed that during surge and super surge events occur - like perhaps what we see at the moment with the number of burst pipes - there are not enough competent contractors (comment from a recent CIRIA publication). I was shocked and outraged to see this as there are plenty of competent independent contractors who don't even get a look in! SHAME.

But guys' you're banging your head on a brick wall.... I know i was the same... but not any more.....

Regards,

Peter Hargreaves

Managing Director, Allkare

Carpet Cleaning Liverpool

Sun, 09 Jan 2011 05:07:00 GMT

With an office in Liverpool, Allkare Carpet Cleaning offer high powered 'Truckmounted' carpet cleaning as well as specialising in upholstery cleaning and leather rejuvenation all over Merseyside.

Allkare carpet and upholstery cleaners are a Nationwide company and cover all of Liverpool, Merseyside as well as the Wirral and Warrington. We supply a superior fast drying carpet and upholstery cleaning service at a sensible price. Areas covered include, Allerton, Mossley Hill, Aigburth, Formby, Childwall, Maghull, Warrington, West Derby, Wallasey and Widnes .

We are a national company and offer Liverpool carpet cleaning and upholstery cleaning company passing savings directly to you the customer. When you call you are connected straight tour professional call centre. Our technicians are also fully trained and are fully insured to clean your valuable carpets and furniture.

Our main method of carpet cleaning and upholstery cleaning is 'Hot Water Extraction', this is what all major carpet and upholstery manufacturers recommend. Allkare use a 'Truckmounted' machine that is up to 20 times more powerful than other cleaning machines. This results in a much deeper clean and has really fast drying times. We don't use your electricity or water as the machine is totally self-contained. Your carpets and upholstery should be dry and ready to use in just a couple of hours.

Allkare have invested in the latest carpet and upholstery cleaning equipment including pile lifters and turbo dryers to care for your carpet and furniture in the best possible way, as well as cleaning carpet, leather and upholstery in homes all over Liverpool, Merseyside and Wirral we also clean for commercial clients such as offices, hotels, schools as well as restaurants etc.

Where possible we also use chemical free cleaning products that don't leave a soapy residue and contain no harmful toxins, completely safe for you, your family and pets.

This does not make us more expensive than other Carpet and furniture cleaners in Liverpool, just more careful!
We believe that the carpet cleaning service that we provide to our clients all across Liverpool, Merseyside, Warrington and the Wirral is exceptional. As well as using different methods of carpet and upholstery cleaning, ranging from steam cleaning with our truck mounted equipment to low moisture cleaning (which can be dry in thirty minutes), we also have the experience and knowledge to carry out this work to an incredibly high standard.

Allkare offer all of our customers a water tight guarantee. You Get the Deepest Most Thorough Carpet Cleaning Ever, Or It's FREE!

If you are not happy with the results of your carpet cleaning, leather cleaning or upholstery cleaning we will even come back and re-clean the area again, Still not happy? Then you get a refund...Easy! !

Allkares cover all of Liverpool and Merseyside and offer the following services -

Why choose us as your local Liverpool carpet cleaners and upholstery cleaners?

'WE CARE'

Liverpool Carpet, Leather and Upholstery Cleaning - Commonly Asked questions...

How long should we wait until we have our carpets cleaned?

It is advised you should (depending on traffic) have your carpets cleaned every 6 - 18 months. Even thorough vacuuming cannot remove 100% of the dry soil in your carpet, and any dirt that remains or builds up over time will be abrasive and will be like rubbing sandpaper against the fibres, in turn wearing the carpet out prematurely (especially in high traffic areas).

My carpets and upholstery aren't that dirty?

Well as we all know, outdoor air contains a lot of contaminates such as bacteria, car exhaust fumes, cigarette smoke, pollens as well as lots of other horrible things. When you and your family come home you bring these pollutants in with you, the good news is that your carpets and upholstery fabrics filter these nasties out of the air for you, in turn cleaning the air you breathe in your home. Clean your carpet and upholstery regularly to help clean up your 'filters'!

Water Damage

Sat, 08 Jan 2011 15:45:00 GMT

Flood Damage

Do you need to get a quote to repair flood damage in your home?

Have you been asked to get an estimate by your insurance company or are you about to make an insurance claim?

Flooding is an increasingly common problem in the UK and its effects can be devastating. Allkare is a member of The British Damage Management Association (BDMA) and always promotes the use of professionally qualified companies and technicians, working to the highest standards, to tackle flood restoration. From a tap left on or a burst pipe to the acts of god every millimeter of flood water is contaminated and will destroy your home with the mildew, toxic and bacteria. In order to prevent permanent damage and adverse effects of mould on human health, you’ve got to have the area dried and cleaned as fast as possible. Our expert contractors specialise in dealing with floods. They will remove the water using a speedy thermo dynamic action and then install drying equipment, dehumidifiers and air movers. Finally a full anti-microbial decontamination will be introduced to eradicate toxic mould before a full a drying and monitoring process is implemented. You will have many other issues to deal with right now. Let Allkare take care of the rest.

Allkare:

will arrange a site visit within 24 hours of your call
will ensure your property is secured and the repairs addressed as soon as possible.
prepare and present a comprehensive report to your insurance company
will liaise directly with your insurance company and contact a loss adjuster if necessary.
will install a team of reputable and reliable tradesmen
will ensure your property is fully restored to the highest standard.
will project manage and stay in close contact throughout until completion, at no extra cost.

http://www.allkarebuildingcontractor.co.uk/services/insurance-claim-specialists.html

What to do after Water Damage

Sat, 08 Jan 2011 13:42:00 GMT

What To Do After A Flood

If your home has been flooded dangers can exist that should be avoided. Make sure to turn off the electricity at the main breaker or fuse box, open the windows as this aids drying. The colder outside weather is the better drying conditions for flood restoration. Call a flood restoration company such as Allkare 0800 731 9121

. It is important to contact your insurance agent and begin looking for a flood clean up and restoration service for your property. We can help you with this and work with your Insurance Company to get you back into your flood damaged home as quickly as possible.

Allkare are Insurance Company approved flood restoration company and provide a Nationwide House drying and water damage repair service

<a href=”http://www.allkarebuildingcontractor.co.uk/home-insurance-repairs.html”>Home Insurance Repair</a>.

Home Insurance Claims

Wed, 15 Jun 2011 08:40:00 GMT

Home insurance claims

If you’ve suffered a fire, flood, burglary or other disaster at home, you face the complications and stress of making an insurance claim.Allkare will take away this burden and represent your best interests to secure the maximum settlement under the terms of your insurance policy.

http://www.allkarebuildingcontractor.co.uk/services/insurance-claim-specialists.html

Home insurance claims advice

AllkareUk offers a complete home drying and property repair service, providing invaluable support, professional help and advice to you at this time of crisis. Acting on your behalf, we will ensure your claim is settled fairly and as quickly as possible.

One of our highly-experienced residential claims handlers will be your single point-of-contact, sorting out all the details, answering all your questions, guiding you through the procedure and leaving you free to get on with your life. We’ll take over your complete claims process, including:

arranging alternative accommodation if you can’t stay in your property.

organising specialist fire & flood restoration works and emergency repairs to your property.

assessing and compiling your insurance claim.dealing with the insurer and their loss adjuster; attending all meetings on your behalf and responding to all letters.laying out the options for you to choose how you want to settle your claim, for example, reinstating your property or agreeing a cash settlement.

In short, we take responsibility for everything, from start to finish. And it’s never too late to contact us: we can take over even if you’ve already started to make your claim, or if you’re unhappy with the settlement you’ve received.

Dealing with your insurance claim loss adjuster

It’s easy to forget that the loss adjuster you’re dealing with is employed by the insurance company to protect their interests, not yours. When you first meet them they will be very sympathetic and helpful. But a few weeks later, when they start to deal with the financial consequences of your loss, they’ll behave very differently. They now have to decide what they will – and won’t – pay for, and the insurer will judge them on how much it will cost to settle your claim. So the loss adjuster’s overriding aim will be to minimise the amount you receive. Allkare will deal with the loss adjuster on your behalf, ensuring your interests are protected at all times and that you receive the settlement you deserve.

Call now on 0800 731 9121 or complete our on line to arrange a no-obligation consultation
.

You wouldn’t go to court without a solicitor: you shouldn’t take on an insurance company without a professional on your side.

“Having Allkare on our side meant that, every step of the way, we could have peace of mind. They made me think about the long-term picture and calmed me down. And if I hadn’t had them working for us, I would always have wondered if I had achieved the best results.”
Mr and Mrs Lucas, Docaster

“This had happened to us 14 years before so we knew what was in front of us. We were completely depressed, knowing we were in for months of misery trying to sort it all out. Allkare changed all that.”
Mr Baker, Preston

Allkare blog

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Tracking Down More Than Just Moisture Problems...

Industry complaint rate increasing...

Are insurance companies settling claims too cheaply?

200,000 homes in England and Wales could be left without flood insurance cover

What is a Loss Assessor?

ABI says 200,000 homes at flooding risk

Loss Assessors

Your insurance cover - and making your insurance claim

Introducing your insurance company's Loss Adjuster

Who can help you to make sure that your insurance claim is maximised?

Making an insurance claim for flood damage

Don't settle for anything less http://www.allkarepropertydryingout.co.uk/services/insurance-claim- specialists.html Peter Hargreaves 01695 559767

Allkare Disaster Restoration Franchise

Carpet Cleaning Manchester

Loss Adjuster V Signed Mandate

Carpet Cleaning Liverpool

With an office in Liverpool, Allkare Carpet Cleaning offer high powered 'Truckmounted' carpet cleaning as well as specialising in upholstery cleaning and leather rejuvenation all over Merseyside.

Liverpool Carpet, Leather and Upholstery Cleaning - Commonly Asked questions...

Water Damage

What to do after Water Damage

Home Insurance Claims

Home insurance claims

Home insurance claims advice

Dealing with your insurance claim loss adjuster

Don't settle for anything less

http://www.allkarepropertydryingout.co.uk/services/insurance-claim-
specialists.html

Peter Hargreaves 01695 559767