When a two-alarm fire broke out at a large hotel, swift action was critical to minimizing damage and disruption. BMS CAT responded in under 45 minutes, arriving on-site to assess the situation and begin stabilizing the property. This immediate response helped protect the building from further loss.

That same night, the local BMS CAT team secured the site, laying the groundwork for a smooth transition to full restoration. By morning, BMS CAT’s National CAT (Catastrophe) division had deployed, bringing in the resources, equipment, and large-loss expertise needed to manage the complex recovery effort.

From securing the site to executing a complete restoration plan, BMS CAT worked closely with hotel management throughout the process. The mission was clear: restore the property to its original condition with minimal disruption to operations.

This incident highlights what BMS CAT does best: rapid response, coordinated teamwork, and expert-led recovery. By acting quickly and scaling efficiently, we help businesses recover from major losses faster and more effectively.

Whether it’s fire, flood, or another disaster, BMS CAT is always ready to restore commercial properties and critical infrastructure when it matters most.

Follow BMS CAT for more real-world recovery stories and insights into how we help organizations get back to business quickly and safely.

Too often, HVAC system maintenance is thought of purely in mechanical terms—inspections, repairs, replacements. But as Colin Trudo, General Manager at BMS CAT in Charlotte, points out, cleaning is just as critical and should be treated as a dedicated budget line item, not an afterthought.

In this episode of Critical Response Stories, Colin explains why facilities teams should consistently set aside funds for cleaning and maintenance focused specifically on system cleanliness. Dirty components make systems work harder, reducing energy efficiency and accelerating wear and tear. Over time, that translates into higher operating costs, more frequent repairs, and premature equipment failure.

Colin draws attention to how even a modest 1% to 2% improvement in energy efficiency can deliver significant savings—especially for large facilities like hospitals, commercial buildings, and high-rises. While that may not sound like much for a homeowner, that small percentage can equate to tens of thousands of dollars per year in a commercial setting.

Budgeting for cleanliness is not just about preventing issues, it is about protecting your investment and improving your bottom line. A clean, well-maintained system lasts longer, uses less energy, and supports better indoor air quality for occupants.

The takeaway is clear: make HVAC cleanliness part of your financial planning. It is not optional—it is essential.

In the wake of COVID-19, indoor air quality became a top priority across commercial and institutional buildings. Ventilation strategies were reevaluated and HVAC systems were reconfigured to bring in more fresh air and increase air exchanges. While these updates helped reduce the risk of airborne transmission, they also introduced new challenges—especially when seasonal changes come into play.

In this episode of Critical Response Stories, the BMS CAT team highlights a common issue facilities teams face during seasonal switchover: making well-intentioned changes without fully understanding the consequences. For instance, bringing in more outside air can improve indoor air quality, but if not properly maintained or adjusted, it can create additional strain on HVAC systems or throw off humidity and temperature control.

Too often, teams assume a simple adjustment will solve a complex problem, but HVAC systems operate best with expert oversight. That's why seasonal transitions should always involve consultation with mechanical contractors or indoor environmental professionals. They can help assess how modifications will affect energy usage, occupant comfort, and system performance across the heating or cooling season.

The key takeaway is not just to react, but to respond wisely. Changes to ventilation and air quality strategies should be informed by data, experience, and collaboration with trusted partners. When it comes to seasonal switchover, a thoughtful approach can prevent costly missteps.

When it comes to energy consumption in the United States, nearly 50% is tied directly to HVAC systems. That number alone highlights why regular HVAC maintenance is not just a matter of comfort or air quality—it is a major factor in energy efficiency and long-term system health.

In this episode, the BMS CAT team breaks down the simple mechanics behind why dirty systems demand more energy and lead to faster failure. A perfect example is the blower motor. Over time, fan blades accumulate dirt, dust, and debris. That buildup adds weight, which forces the motor to work harder to maintain airflow. Once cleaned, the blades spin more freely, airflow improves, and the system requires less energy to do the same job.

Cleaner components also mean more efficient heat and moisture transfer across coils, allowing the HVAC system to cool spaces more effectively without overexertion. That reduction in effort does more than just lower energy bills—it extends the life of the system itself. With less strain on motors, belts, and coils, facilities face fewer breakdowns and less frequent part replacements.

The takeaway is clear: proactive maintenance like duct and blower cleaning is not just preventative—it’s cost-saving. Organizations that prioritize regular cleanings are not only reducing energy usage but also preserving the longevity of their investment in large-scale HVAC systems.

Managing HVAC maintenance in a large facility can feel overwhelming. According to Colin Trudo, General Manager at BMS CAT in Charlotte, it all starts with understanding industry guidelines and building a practical inspection plan around them.

Referencing the National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA), Colin explains that most commercial buildings should have both their HVAC units and ductwork inspected at least once a year. While that sounds straightforward, the reality is often much more complex—especially when you’re managing a campus with 100 or more individual units, like many hospitals or school systems.

In these cases, Colin recommends a strategic, phased approach. “You take a sampling,” he says. “Look at a few of the units this year, keep an eye on others, and respond when something looks off.” Rather than trying to tackle every unit at once, teams should prioritize inspections based on usage, risk factors, or previous maintenance history.

The key, he emphasizes, is building familiarity between your facilities team and your recovery or service partner. “Our teams already know the campus, the access points, the security protocols. So when there is an issue, we can respond faster and more proactively.”

Routine HVAC and duct inspections might not always seem urgent, but neglecting them can quickly lead to indoor air quality concerns, system inefficiencies, or even emergency repairs. With a thoughtful, rotating inspection plan and a trusted partner, even the largest facilities can stay ahead of the curve.

In this episode of Critical Response Stories, Kacie Chappell shares a hard truth many organizations face too late: a business continuity plan is only as strong as the people carrying it out.

Kacie has seen that the most successful recoveries start long before the storm hits. They begin with preparation, practice, and a clear understanding of roles. Teams that rehearse their response, know who to call, and understand their responsibilities are able to act quickly and effectively when disaster strikes. That level of coordination leads to faster recoveries and far fewer complications.

On the other hand, when a plan exists on paper but hasn’t been practiced, the results can be chaotic. Miscommunications, delays, and confusion in the heat of the moment can worsen the impact and prolong the return to normal operations. It’s not just about having a plan in place. It’s about building muscle memory and clarity among every member of the team.

Through real examples, Kacie explains how proactive planning transforms an overwhelmed response into confident leadership. She urges organizations to take the time now to train, test, and revisit their continuity strategies so that when a crisis hits, they are not asking, “What do we do?” but instead, “Let’s go.”

In this soundbite, Kacie Chappell shares how proactive planning can turn a chaotic emergency into a moment of calm leadership. For Kacie, preparation is not just about logistics. It is what allows teams to step up when it matters most.

“When organizations plan before something happens, they really see the benefit in the heat of the moment,” she says. Whether it is a hurricane on the coast or a tornado in Texas, the clients who take time to build continuity plans are always in a stronger position to respond quickly and effectively.

Kacie recalls one powerful example involving a school district that suffered multiple losses across its campuses. “It was not a convenient time for the district,” she says, but because they had done the work upfront, BMS CAT was able to mobilize fast. Crews arrived with a clear strategy, restoring buildings so that students and staff could return without unnecessary delay.

It is in those moments, late at night or during high-pressure decisions, when the value of planning really shows. “They become the hero in their organization,” Kacie explains, “and we are behind the scenes fixing the building.”

For her, that is the true reward: knowing BMS CAT plays a part in helping clients rise to the occasion. Because in any crisis, the organizations that plan ahead are not just reacting. They are leading.

In this episode of Inside Restoration & Recovery, host Martha Lewis sits down with Josh Creznic, Director of Hospitality Services at BMS CAT, to unpack the unique challenges and critical priorities in hotel restoration.

With over two decades of experience in hospitality—spanning major brands like Marriott and Wyndham—Josh brings deep insight into how restoration teams can best support hotels during disasters. Now at BMS CAT, he uses that experience to bridge the gap between urgent restoration needs and the demands of a 24/7 guest experience.

Josh shares a real-world case of a pipe burst in a high-profile hotel where BMS CAT’s fast response and strategic coordination helped restore flooded floors while minimizing disruption. That meant walking the property with leadership, developing a custom plan, and helping them get “heads in beds” as quickly as possible.

From hurricanes to everyday emergencies, Josh emphasizes the importance of preparation. He encourages hotel general managers to partner with restoration providers before disaster strikes—walking the property together, identifying vulnerabilities, and building a plan that works in practice, not just on paper.

Throughout the episode, he underlines the importance of professionalism, communication, and respect for the guest experience. “We’re an extension of their brand,” he explains. “Even holding the door for a guest matters.”

This conversation is a must-listen for anyone in the hospitality industry seeking to improve their emergency response strategy, minimize business interruption, and maintain guest satisfaction—even during a crisis.

In this episode of Inside Restoration & Recovery, host Martha Lewis sits down with Josh Creznic, Director of Hospitality Services at BMS CAT, to unpack the unique challenges and critical priorities in hotel restoration.

With over two decades of experience in hospitality—spanning major brands like Marriott and Wyndham—Josh brings deep insight into how restoration teams can best support hotels during disasters. Now at BMS CAT, he uses that experience to bridge the gap between urgent restoration needs and the demands of a 24/7 guest experience.

Josh shares a real-world case of a pipe burst in a high-profile hotel where BMS CAT’s fast response and strategic coordination helped restore flooded floors while minimizing disruption. That meant walking the property with leadership, developing a custom plan, and helping them get “heads in beds” as quickly as possible.

From hurricanes to everyday emergencies, Josh emphasizes the importance of preparation. He encourages hotel general managers to partner with restoration providers before disaster strikes—walking the property together, identifying vulnerabilities, and building a plan that works in practice, not just on paper.

Throughout the episode, he underlines the importance of professionalism, communication, and respect for the guest experience. “We’re an extension of their brand,” he explains. “Even holding the door for a guest matters.”

This conversation is a must-listen for anyone in the hospitality industry seeking to improve their emergency response strategy, minimize business interruption, and maintain guest satisfaction—even during a crisis.

On this episode of Inside Restoration & Recovery, host Martha Lewis sits down with Shadira Jones, General Manager of BMS CAT’s Tampa office, to talk about resilience, leadership, and preparation during back-to-back hurricanes that hit the Florida coast.

With less than two years at BMS CAT under her belt, Shadira was thrust into emergency mode as two very different storms—first a devastating flood event and then a high-wind hurricane—struck her region just weeks apart. What followed was a masterclass in crisis leadership. Shadira shares how her team quickly mobilized, communicated with clients under pressure, and provided not just restoration services but critical reassurance during a time of uncertainty.

She highlights the importance of pre-storm planning, strong internal communication, and having national resources at her fingertips—plus the ability to pivot when unexpected damage or delays occurred. From creating a command center in the Tampa office to delivering 24/7 customer updates and fielding late-night calls from long-time clients, Shadira’s approach was equal parts strategy and heart.

This episode is a reminder of why preparation matters, especially in hurricane-prone areas—and how leadership under pressure can strengthen both teams and customer trust.

Listen now to hear how BMS CAT delivers “the calm after the storm”—and why, as Shadira says, “we stay ready so we don’t have to get ready.”