McMahon Services - Tom McMahan & Hunter Ruder

Tom and Hunter from McMahon Services, a family-owned restoration business serving Grayslake for over a decade. They discuss the company’s evolution from window washing to full-service restoration, emphasizing quick emergency response, community involvement, and the importance of empathy during disasters. Listeners receive practical advice on home maintenance, insurance coverage, and disaster preparedness.

Discovering Grayslake: Lessons in Restoration, Community, and Preparedness from McMahon Services

In the heart of Grayslake, Illinois, family-owned businesses are the backbone of the community. In a recent episode of "Discovering Grayslake," the spotlight shone on McMahon Services—a company that has grown from humble beginnings into a trusted leader in restoration and cleaning services. Hosted at Agora Co-Working, the conversation with Tom McMahon and Hunter from McMahon Services offered a wealth of insights for homeowners, business owners, and anyone invested in the well-being of their community.

This blog post distills the main themes and actionable advice from the episode, diving deep into the nuances of restoration, emergency preparedness, insurance, and the power of community involvement. Whether you’re a Grayslake local or simply looking to safeguard your home, these expert tips will help you prepare for the unexpected and build stronger community ties.

Table of Contents

The McMahon Services Story: From Window Washing to Restoration Experts
Tip 1: The Critical Importance of Rapid Response in Emergencies
Tip 2: Why Homeowners Should Call Restoration Pros Before Insurance
Tip 3: Proactive Home Maintenance to Prevent Disasters
Tip 4: Understanding and Optimizing Your Insurance Coverage
Tip 5: The Value of Community Involvement and Local Connections
Tip 6: Empathy and Support During Times of Crisis
Final Thoughts: Building Resilience and Community Spirit

The McMahon Services Story: From Window Washing to Restoration Experts

McMahon Services’ journey began with Tom’s grandfather, a Chicago fireman, who started the business by washing windows. Over the years, the company evolved—thanks in part to a pivotal connection with a local insurance agent—into a full-service restoration provider. Today, McMahon Services offers:

Water damage restoration
Fire and smoke cleanup
Mold remediation
Biohazard cleanup
General cleaning and home improvement services

With a staff of over 30 employees and a decade of service in Grayslake and Hainesville, McMahon Services is a testament to the power of adaptability, family values, and community engagement.

Tip 1: The Critical Importance of Rapid Response in Emergencies

Key Insight: In restoration, time is everything. The sooner professionals arrive, the better the outcome.

Why It Matters:
Water damage can escalate quickly, leading to mold growth and structural issues within hours.
Fast action minimizes damage, reduces costs, and increases the likelihood of salvaging personal property.

Actionable Advice:
Choose a local provider:** McMahon Services’ local ownership allows them to be on-site within an hour, a crucial advantage over larger, less nimble companies.
Have emergency contacts ready:** Store the number of a trusted restoration company in your phone and on your fridge.
Don’t wait for insurance approval:** Immediate mitigation is often required by insurance policies and can prevent claim denials due to “neglect.”

Expert Tip: Even if the water seems minor, hidden moisture can cause major problems. Professionals use specialized equipment to detect and dry out unseen water in walls and floors.

Tip 2: Why Homeowners Should Call Restoration Pros Before Insurance

Key Insight: Restoration experts can help you assess the situation and guide you on whether to file a claim.

Why It Matters:
Not all water or fire damage is covered by standard policies.
Filing unnecessary claims can raise your premiums or result in denied coverage.

Actionable Advice:
Call restoration first:** Let professionals assess the damage and provide a ballpark estimate.
Understand your policy:** Many homeowners are unaware of exclusions (e.g., sump pump failures, sewer backups).
Get documentation:** Restoration companies can provide detailed reports and photos to support your claim if needed.

Expert Tip: Ask your restoration provider to walk you through the insurance process—they often know what adjusters look for and can help you avoid common pitfalls.

Tip 3: Proactive Home Maintenance to Prevent Disasters

Key Insight: Many emergencies are preventable with regular maintenance and a little foresight.

Why It Matters:
Simple oversights, like not detaching hoses in winter, can lead to burst pipes and costly repairs.
Sump pump failures are a leading cause of basement flooding.

Actionable Advice:
Winterize your home:** Detach hoses and shut off exterior hose bibs before freezing temperatures hit.
Test your sump pump:** Pour water into the pit to ensure it activates. Consider a battery backup system for power outages.
Inspect plumbing and appliances:** Regularly check for leaks, corrosion, and wear.
Document your property:** Take photos of valuables and home improvements for insurance purposes.

Expert Tip: Schedule seasonal maintenance reminders on your calendar. Prevention is always cheaper than restoration.

Tip 4: Understanding and Optimizing Your Insurance Coverage

Key Insight: Many homeowners are underinsured or lack the right endorsements for common disasters.

Why It Matters:
Rising home values and new building codes can leave you under-protected.
Not all policies cover basement backups, sump pump failures, or detached structures.

Actionable Advice:
Review your policy annually:** Meet with your insurance agent to discuss changes in your home or coverage needs.
Ask about endorsements:** Ensure you have coverage for water backup, mold, and other common risks.
Update for renovations:** Any home improvement or addition should be reported to your insurer.

Expert Tip: Keep a digital and physical copy of your policy and inventory list in a safe, accessible place.

Tip 5: The Value of Community Involvement and Local Connections

Key Insight: Being active in the community builds trust and ensures help is close at hand when disaster strikes.

Why It Matters:
Local businesses are more invested in the well-being of their neighbors.
Community events foster relationships that can be invaluable in times of need.

Actionable Advice:
Support local businesses:** They’re more likely to go the extra mile for their customers.
Get involved:** Attend or volunteer at local events, parades, and clean-up days.
Network:** Join local chambers of commerce or neighborhood groups to stay informed and connected.

Expert Tip: Familiar faces in the community are more approachable during emergencies. Don’t hesitate to reach out to those you’ve met at local events.

Tip 6: Empathy and Support During Times of Crisis

Key Insight: Restoration is about more than repairs—it’s about helping people through some of their toughest moments.

Why It Matters:
Disasters are emotionally taxing; a compassionate approach makes a world of difference.
Empathy builds lasting relationships and trust.

Actionable Advice:
Choose companies that care:** Look for service providers who emphasize empathy and support.
Lean on your community:** Don’t be afraid to ask for help or offer it to others in need.
Practice kindness:** Small gestures—like checking on a neighbor after a storm—strengthen community bonds.

Expert Tip: Restoration professionals often have resources and advice for coping with loss. Don’t hesitate to ask for guidance beyond the technical repairs.

Final Thoughts: Building Resilience and Community Spirit

The story of McMahon Services is a reminder that resilience is built on preparation, relationships, and a willingness to help others. By taking proactive steps—maintaining your home, understanding your insurance, and connecting with your community—you can weather life’s storms with greater confidence.

Remember:
Quick action saves property and peace of mind.
The right insurance coverage is your safety net.
Community is your greatest resource in times of need.

If you’re in Grayslake or the surrounding area, consider reaching out to McMahon Services for restoration needs—or just to say hello at the next community event. And wherever you are, take these lessons to heart: prepare, connect, and support your neighbors. That’s the hometown way.

For more tips and local stories, subscribe to "Discovering Grayslake" and stay connected with the businesses that make our community strong.

If you found this post helpful, share it with your neighbors and let’s keep Grayslake safe, prepared, and thriving—together.