Water is essential for life on Earth. However, water can be unpredictable and even destructive in large amounts. It is crucial to get the restoration work started as soon as possible if you have suffered flood damage to your commercial property. You can minimize damage and return to work quickly by being prepared for restoration.

Tips for handling flood damage

Flooding can severely impact your ability and ability to offer services to your community. Commercial property is an investment. Your business may have to close temporarily while the restoration takes place. Employees might also be unable to work during this time. The right commercial restoration company will respond quickly to ensure your commercial property is back in business within a short time.

Flood damage can be overwhelming. It is possible to make the process easier and less stressful by following these key tips and having an organized plan.

Safety first

When you are starting your commercial flood damage restoration, safety is paramount. You and your employees are not qualified to deal with the severe damage that large amounts of water can do. Do not attempt to repair flood damage by yourself.

Insurance companies are also a good idea. These contacts can be helpful in expediting the process. You will need to assess the damage and report it to the listed entities. However, you should not do anything that you don’t feel comfortable with. Your life is more important than your property.

Be aware of your risks.

You must be familiar with water shut-offs in order to keep your employees safe. Next, identify the most important electrical sources, such as circuit boxes, electrical boxes, and meters. Flooding situations can present a serious danger to electricity. You can cut the electricity to prevent injuries and allow you to evacuate your home.

If you see water leaking from light fixtures or outlets, it is important to turn off the electricity. It can reduce loss, protect assets and lower the chance of flooding. You can verify that you have shut off all the water and electricity sources. If not, you should leave the building immediately and call a professional.

Know your contamination risk.

Be aware of potential environmental hazards that may exist in commercial buildings, such as asbestos or lead. You should also identify any potential hazards caused by water damage. Water damage can result from a natural disaster, a burst pipe carrying clean water, or sewer water flooding your building. Different water sources pose different health hazards.

Start locating essential tools by gathering the necessary tools.

After you’ve minimized the risks of water and electric supply interruptions and contacted authorities, you can begin your role in restoration by locating and retrieving valuables. Basic tools such as trash bags, caution tape, and duct tape are essential. You also need a flashlight and basic hand tools like screwdrivers, hammers, and other tools. If you’re unsure about the source or contamination of any water, you might want to bring boots and a suit of protection.

You can safely remove any electronics, artwork, or company documents that are not necessary. You can then begin to contain the affected areas and isolate them to protect your staff. 

Start working with others.

Flood restoration for commercial properties can be quite a task. Commercial properties, for example, require more complicated repairs than residential properties.

While the damage assessment is being done, you should consider your options for water damage and plumbing, electrical work, mold inspections, HVAC, and other building repairs. Before you allow tenants or employees to return, your building must be safe and functional. Your contractor will help you determine the best steps to bring your property back to its original function and safety.

Finding a qualified restoration contractor

Flood restoration can seem overwhelming. It is important to get the process started quickly and know the right people to contact. You’ll likely have to complete several projects before your commercial property can be used again.

Instead, you can hire a company that provides all the restoration, repair, replacement, and restoration services you need to get your commercial property up and running again quickly.