Thus far in 2022, many states, including Colorado, have experienced heavy rainfall causing damage to homes and buildings. Floods in your home or workplace are devastating and costly. In this article, we provide information about what can cause water damage to buildings, what to do if you experience water damage, and how to prevent damage in the future.
It's not just heavy rainfall that causes water damage. When it comes to commercial water damage, according to Hartford, data shows that 75% of losses come from leaks related to:
Plumbing (burst or leaking pipes)
HVAC Systems
Appliances
Roof Leaks
Sprinkler Systems
Windows
If you become aware of water damage or an issue that can potentially lead to property loss or damage, it's essential to take immediate action. In the case you have commercial water damage, the following are three quick, actionable items:
Identify the Source. If possible, locate the source that caused the water damage, whether it was a roof leak due to heavy rainfall or a pipe burst. Find the source, and turn off any water valves as needed.
Contact the Property Manager. They can help coordinate hiring a company specializing in water damage, but extracting the water is essential in the short term. Rocky Mountain Janitorial is available 24/7 to help with these emergency services.
Contact Your Insurance Company. Water damage can be costly; all small businesses must obtain commercial property insurance, which will help to avoid out-of-pocket expenses. If you have water damage, contact your insurance company immediately. It would also be helpful for you and the insurance company to take pictures; doing so will help assess the damages.
PREVENTATIVE MAINTENANCE
To prevent water damage and other common building occurrences, it's essential to have a preventative maintenance checklist. The following is an example checklist:
Plumbing. Check for water leaks. Pipes should be securely fastened, and check for lines that need replacing.
HVAC. Replace filters often and check if all the HVAC systems are working correctly.
Appliances. If only appliances would last forever, but they don't. Ensure wiring is intact, there are no signs of small leaks, and all appliances are adequately sealed. A thorough checkup will need to be done by removing devices from the wall, underneath cabinets, etc.
Roof Leaks. Heavy rainfall in a short amount of time can cause damage to your roof. Check the rooftop every time there is hail or heavy rain. This is a leading cause of water damage in most buildings, including homes.
Sprinkler Systems. The lawn-mowing service may have destroyed one of the sprinkler heads near the building, and you're not aware because it's not always visible. Be sure to do a sprinkler check at least once a month or weekly.
Windows. Just like appliances, windows don't last forever. Especially in an older building, you want to ensure the sealant is intact. The property owner may consider upgrading the windows to double-pane if the building is more senior.
CONTACT PROFESSIONALS
With unpredictable weather, it's critical to have a plan in case of a disaster. We certainly don't want you to be caught with a mess to clean up; however if an instance occurs, we are available to assist you 24/7 - 7 days a week. Our team of professionals can also help property managers create and implement a preventative maintenance program.
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