Among the most common sources of commercial property damage is moisture. From flooding and storm damage to leaky roofs and burst pipes, issues caused by water can be overwhelming. Soaked inventory and destroyed furnishings are just the beginning, as structural damage, sewage backup, and mold growth are some of the potential problems you face. Not to mention shutting down operations and losing business. Here’s what you need to do right now if your office, restaurant, warehouse, or other type of commercial building is flooding — and water and flood damage restoration.
Ensure Everyone’s Safety
Properties can be restored — but when souls are at stake, prioritizing everyone’s safety is crucial. Evacuate everyone to a place of safety to safeguard all against exposure to unhealthy water or loose electrical wires. Do not wade into any water without dressing in the proper protective gear, as exposure to pollutants or bacteria can make you sick.
Shut Down Your Utilities
Turn off gas and electricity mains into your building. If you don’t know how to execute this critical safety measure, get in touch with local service providers immediately. If your property is flooding because of leaking pipes or a plumbing system breakdown, shut off the water main as well.
If Possible, Assess the Situation
If you haven’t been able to already, determine where the water damage is coming from, how severe it is, and what should be done immediately to stop further damage. Consider the following:
- Where the moisture is coming from. Is it a substantial leak, a busted pipe, etc.?
- What’s the damage so far? This can range from damp carpets to knee-deep water in the basement.
- What does the water look like? Is it clean, or does it appear gray and somewhat dirty? Is it black — extremely dirt — such as sewage? Note that the dirtier it is, the more of a health hazard it poses.
Open up doors, cabinets, and drawers in affected areas. If it’s not humid out, open windows and exterior doors. Take pictures and record videos of water damage on the inside and outside of your commercial property.
Contact Your Insurance Company
Call your insurance company right away, outline the extent of the damages and determine a time for the adjuster’s inspection. Make sure to keep records of all phone calls and emails between you and your insurer that include names, dates, and times.
Get In Touch a Water and Flood Damage Restoration Company
Next, reach out to a water and flood damage restoration company that has extensive experience handling all types of commercial building flooding. You can let these certified technicians handle water removal, structural drying, necessary repairs, and mold remediation. Restoration contractors help minimize business disruption, which means you’ll be able to reopen as soon as possible.
When disaster strikes, having response plans in place is crucial. Fortunately, restoration services can help prevent water from damaging property owners’ commercial buildings even further. For more information, contact CPR Restoration & Cleaning Services today!
