What to Do After a Storm: Checklist for Commercial Water Damage Restoration

1/27/2022 (Permalink)

Blog Summary: SERVPRO of Coppell and West Addison provides Las Colinas business owners a short guide to commercial water damage restoration.

Commercial water damage restoration can bring a business to an abrupt halt. It requires immediate attention and can cost business owners thousands if they don’t handle the situation correctly. However, many Las Colinas business owners don’t know the correct steps to mitigate water damage.

Luckily, Team Shaw of SERVPRO of Coppell and West Addison put together this brief guide to help business owners deal with commercial water damage when disaster strikes. Follow the steps listed below to lessen commercial water damage and stop the flow of flooding water.

Commercial Water Damage Restoration Checklist: A Short Guide

Step One: Shut off the Water Main

The first step to commercial water damage restoration is to stop the flow of flooding water. If the flood stems from a broken or leaking pipe, business owners must immediately turn off the water main. This prevents the water from spreading to other areas and causing more damage.

If the flooding stems from a roof leak or other damages related to mother nature, the business owner should call a storm damage restoration company to resolve the issue.

Step Two: Turn off the Electricity

If water makes its way to a business’s electrical system, it can ruin the network and put occupants at risk for electrocution. That’s why it’s crucial for business owners to shut off their electricity (or at least the electricity flowing to the affected area) during the first signs of flooding. If it’s dry and safe to touch, use the establishment’s electrical panel to turn off the power and keep everyone safe and secure.

Before shutting the electricity off, avoid stepping in any water on the floor, as you could risk electrocution.

Step Three: Document the Damage and Contact the Insurance Company

Since many commercial insurance policies require the business owner to file a claim within 48 hours of the incident, contact the insurance company as soon as possible.

Also, taking a few pictures of the damages helps prove the business owner’s insurance claim, allowing them to receive more compensation. Always take detailed photos of the water-ridden areas and anything affected by the flood to ensure adequate compensation from the insurance company.

Step Four: Start Removing the Water

Once the business owner turns off the electricity and main water line, they can start removing the floodwater. Use a mop or shop-vac to remove the water from the affected area. Business owners can also place old newspapers or towels to soak up the water while waiting for the commercial water damage restoration company to arrive.

Water removal experts use high-powered fans to speed up the drying process. Placing a few portable fans around the area helps reduce the moisture affecting the area, allowing it to dry quicker and more efficiently. It’s vital to dry the area as soon as possible to prevent hazardous mold and mildew.

Step Five: Contact SERVPRO of Coppell and West Addison for Professional Water Damage Restoration in Las Colinas, TX.

The experts at SERVPRO of Coppell and West Addison can handle any commercial water damage restoration project you throw their way. Its team can handle everything from water damage, fire restoration to commercial cleaning. SERVPRO of Coppell and West Addison has helped countless Las Colinas residents with water damage restoration, and they can do the same for you at a price that fits your budget.

Contact Team Shaw of SERVPRO of Coppell and West Addison at (972) 233-8400 today!