Being Prepared for Commercial Water Damage
“That was convenient” is never going to be something you say
or hear when water damage strikes your place of business, in fact, it’s exactly
the opposite. We understand the urgency and the delicacy of the situation, but
it is important that when faced with commercial water damage, you stay calm, think clearly, and
act fast. Here are a few tips that will help ease the stress and make the
restoration process run a lot smoother.
Be Prepared
Heavy rainstorms, pipe leaks, sewage backups, etc. can happen
at any time and at any place. If you can ensure that you are prepared for any
of these to happen and ready to act if they do, it will lessen the panic and
the headache that typically comes with it.
Airbrick protection, sandbags, and pumps are all widely available – the
initial investment in at least one of these could save you a lot more in the
long run. Another very important way to be prepared is to make sure you have
insurance to help keep you covered in the case of water damage.
Business buildings insurance is essential, whilst business
equipment and stock can also be insured. The damage caused by floods can be
extremely extensive, so it’s important to have back up.
When the flood hits
As the flood hits, there are a number of measures you can
take to limit the damage, but before you do, ensure that it is safe. Flowing
floodwater can be incredibly powerful and can easily hurt someone, if not
worse. Access the situation carefully and ensure that the water isn’t
accessible to electricity. If you come to the conclusion that it is safe,
always make sure you wear protective gear such as rubber boots and rubber
gloves. If you are unsure, it is always better to wait for a trained
professional to take the proper steps for you.
First, you’ll need to isolate the problem area and cut off
the water flow. If it’s an internal damage, turn off your water, gas, and
electricity. In the case of an external flooding, use tools such as towels or
sandbags to stop the flowing water.
After you have stopped the damage from worsening, take
pictures. You will need evidence that what was damaged was, in fact, damaged by
the flood for your insurance claim.
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