What To Do About Water Damage to a Commercial Building

1/30/2020 (Permalink)

Flooding to your Todd Creek, CO, business can be caused by a variety of circumstances, from damaged pipes to inclement weather. Understanding the causes, preventive measures and cleanup process can help protect your business from water damage.

Causes of Water Damage

There are many reasons your commercial building may flood. The following are some common causes:

• Roof leaks
  
• Leaking pipes
  
• Malfunctioning appliances
  
• Heavy rains
  
  

It is important to know which losses are covered by your insurance policy. Generally, a specialized flood policy is required for damage caused by heavy rains and springtime snow melt. Talk to your insurance agent to make sure you are fully covered.

Preventing Water Damage

Unfortunately, some causes of flooding are beyond your control. However, performing routine maintenance on appliances and the building itself can minimize the potential for damage. Make sure that gutters are cleaned out and the sump pump, if the building has one, is properly maintained. Fix roof leaks promptly. Additionally, check for damaged pipes and repair them immediately. If you have any pipes that are exposed to freezing temperatures, insulate them to ensure they do not rupture.

Cleaning Up Water Damage

It is important to dry the affected area as soon as possible because mold can begin to grow in as little as 24 hours. Specialized pumps and vacuums should be able to remove most of the standing water. Then you can use dehumidifiers and fans to dry out the remaining moisture. Be sure to sanitize all surfaces that came into contact with the flood water. The source of the water will determine the type of cleaner that you should use. Throw away all items that cannot be fully cleaned and dried.
With a little preparation, you may be able to prevent flooding to your business. However, if you do experience water damage, whether from damaged pipes, a roof leak or any other cause, a certified restoration team can help get your business back to preloss condition.