Water damage is a common occurrence in commercial buildings, and it can be caused by various factors such as burst pipes, leaking roofs, or faulty plumbing. When faced with a water damage emergency, time is of the essence, as delays can result in further damage and costly repairs. In this article, we will discuss what to do and what to avoid when dealing with commercial water damage emergencies.
What To Do
- Act Fast: In the event of a water damage emergency, it is essential to act fast and address the issue immediately. The longer water remains in a building, the more extensive the damage will be. As soon as you notice any signs of water damage, such as pooling water or damp spots on walls or ceilings, take action right away.
- Turn Off the Water Supply: If the source of the water damage is a burst pipe or faulty plumbing, turn off the water supply to prevent further flooding. This will also stop additional water from entering the building and causing more damage.
- Call A Professional Restoration Company: Water damage restoration requires specialized equipment and expertise. Therefore, it is crucial to call a professional restoration company as soon as possible. They will have the necessary tools and knowledge to assess the situation, mitigate further damage, and restore your commercial building to its pre-loss condition.
- Document The Damage: Before any cleanup or restoration work begins, be sure to document the extent of the water damage for insurance purposes. Take photos and videos of affected areas and make a detailed list of damaged items. This information will help you with your insurance claim later on.
- Remove Standing Water: If there is standing water in the building, it needs to be removed as soon as possible. The longer it sits, the more damage it can cause. A professional restoration company will have powerful pumps and vacuums to remove water quickly and efficiently.
- Dry Out Affected Areas: Once standing water has been removed, the affected areas need to be thoroughly dried out. This includes walls, floors, and furniture. Industrial-grade dehumidifiers and air movers are used to speed up the drying process.
- Sanitize And Disinfect: Water damage can lead to mold growth if not properly treated. As such, it is crucial to sanitize and disinfect all affected areas and items to prevent the growth of mold and bacteria.
What To Avoid
- Ignoring The Issue: One of the biggest mistakes businesses make when faced with water damage is ignoring the issue or attempting a DIY cleanup. Water damage restoration requires specialized equipment and expertise, and attempting to handle it on your own can do more harm than good.
- Delaying Cleanup And Restoration: Time is of the essence in water damage emergencies, and delays can lead to further damage and costly repairs. The longer water sits, the more it can seep into building materials and cause mold growth, which can be hazardous to health.
- Using Electrical Appliances: Never use electrical appliances in a water-damaged area, as this can be extremely dangerous. Water is a conductor of electricity, and using electrical appliances in wet areas can lead to electric shocks or fires.
- Not Documenting The Damage: As mentioned earlier, it is crucial to document the extent of the water damage for insurance purposes. Failing to do so can result in delays or difficulties with your insurance claim.
- Overlooking Structural Damage: Some businesses may attempt to cut corners and overlook structural damage in an effort to save money. However, this can have serious consequences in the long run if not properly addressed.
Commercial water damage emergencies can be stressful and overwhelming. Still, by acting fast and following the steps discussed in this article, you can minimize the damage and get your business back up and running in no time. If you ever find yourself facing a water damage emergency in your commercial building, contact Water Damage America for fast and reliable commercial water damage restoration services. Our 24/7 emergency response crew is always ready to help you minimize the damage and get your business back on track. Act now and protect your investment with Water Damage America!
