Sarasota Strong: Panhandle Cleaning & Restoration's Response to Hurricanes Helene & Milton
Helping to rebuild the lives of Florida homeowners and business owners after storm devastation
SARASOTA, FL – When Hurricanes Helene & Milton made landfall in Sarasota in October 2024, they left a trail of destruction in their wake. Homes and businesses were damaged, and the community faced a long road to recovery. As a local restoration company with a deep-rooted presence in Sarasota, Panhandle Cleaning & Restoration was ready to step up and assist those affected by the storm.
Panhandle swiftly mobilized, deploying experienced crews to assess damage and initiate restoration efforts. From water damage to structural repairs, whether residential or commercial properties, Panhandle was equipped to address a wide range of restoration needs, with the priority of helping homeowners and business owners get back on their feet as quickly as possible.
"Seeing the devastation caused by the hurricanes was heartbreaking," said Bob Contraguerro Jr., owner of Panhandle Cleaning & Restoration. "But it also fueled our determination to help our community recover. We were fortunate to have a local presence in Sarasota, allowing us to respond immediately to the needs of our customers."
Panhandle dispatched its Catastrophe Response Teams to sites throughout the Sarasota area to begin storm debris cleanup and removal, water extraction, initial repairs, and to move the restoration and recovery process forward for residents across the Sarasota area.
“We understand the emotional toll that natural disasters can take, and we strive to provide compassionate and empathetic service,” Contraguerro said. “We’re ready to help you in any way we can. In times like these, it can be difficult to know where to start or not to be overwhelmed.”
During recovery efforts that continue after Helene & Milton, Panhandle Cleaning & Restoration teams have logged the following:
- Received an influx of approximately 750 residential and commercial property claims in need of cleanup or other hurricane-related assistance
- Managed a workforce of more than 200 individuals working throughout Longboat Ket, Siesta Key and Lido Key
- Utilized more than 3,000 pieces of portable restoration equipment comprised of fans, air scrubbers and dehumidifiers
Panhandle provided a source of physical restoration for many property owners but in many cases was able to listen, offer guidance, help navigate the insurance claims process, or give emotional support when or where possible. The patience, expertise, and emergency response that Panhandle teams displayed helped give residence and owners new hope, ease their burdens, and give them confidence in a long recovery.
As Sarasota continues its post-hurricane journey, Panhandle Cleaning & Restoration remains committed to supporting the community and is proud to be part of the rebuilding process. Panhandle looks forward to helping its neighbors return to normalcy.
If you are still struggling with repairs to your home or business following Hurricane Helene or Milton, call Panhandle Cleaning & Restoration today at 866-515-2364, or contact us online to consult with our storm cleanup and recovery specialists.
About Panhandle Cleaning & Restoration:
Panhandle Cleaning and Restoration is a full-service restoration company that offers water, mold, fire, and storm damage restoration services. As the leading provider of disaster restoration, we serve areas throughout six states. Robert C. Contraguerro, Sr., founded Panhandle Cleaning & Restoration in 1977, with a commitment to fairness, honesty, and quality work. We have established a stellar reputation for the quality of our services and the professionalism of our talented technicians. Today, Panhandle holds seven restoration industry certifications, with memberships in professional organizations CORE and DKI, as well as an A+ BBB rating.
