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Commercial Water Damage in Your Business | SERVPRO® of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties
10/20/2022 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties are your local commercial restoration company. We will always be here to help clean up and get you back in
The impact that a flood can have on your commercial property is huge. Flooding can originate inside or outside, and even a small flood can create complete chaos.
Burst pipes, a leaky roof, a flooded bathroom or backed up sewer can destroy your inventory, shut down a floor or even cause the need for the entire building to be shut down.
Natural causes can also have the same devastating effects. Living so close to the Mississippi River and its tributaries, we understand the constant threat of flooding.
Even with the recent updates to the flood wall, the more prepared we are before a flood happens, the safer and faster we can respond. That means keeping your business on track no matter what happens.
Learning the layout of your building is one of the best ways you can mitigate and protect it from water intrusion. Know where the shutoffs are for the sprinkler system, restrooms and even the main water valve so you can turn water off quickly when there is a leak or other failure.
Make sure multiple people in your building know where these valves are, and train them to respond quickly when there is an emergency.
When your building does take on water, it is important to understand the source of flooding and the kind of water you are dealing with in order to keep everyone safe.
White water. White water is the kind of water that comes from plumbing issues. This type of intrusion is not considered dangerous and in small amounts can be handled on your own.
Gray water. When a toilet tank or sink overflows, it results in a gray water flood. This water is considered contaminated, but it is not dangerous.
Black water. Storm flooding and sewage backups are the most common sources of flooding that are considered toxic. This kind of flood requires a professional response in order to be handled safely.
When a flooding event occurs, timing is the most crucial part of mitigating damages. Find the source of the water and shut off any plumbing valves involved.
Open as many windows and doors as you are able in order to increase air circulation, and alert everyone in the building to avoid the flooded area.
Once you have gotten a handle on things, start documenting as much damage as you can see. Pictures and notes will not only help when you work with your insurance company, but they can also help you determine areas of your building that may need additional reinforcements to prevent another event.
The damage that you can see in a flood is likely only part of the overall destruction. Check for signs of hidden damage by watching for wet wall studs, buckled floors and moldy frames.
When you experience a flooding disaster, call SERVPRO of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties as quickly as you are able. We are available 24⁄7 with the experience and equipment to start drying out your business right away.
Cleanup and sanitation during the drying process can take a week or more depending on the severity of the event, so remember to be patient. Our team will lay out a plan and walk through each step with you in order to get your business back to normal as fast as possible.
When disaster strikes your commercial property, we’ll be there to help clean up and get you back in business quickly. Reach out 24⁄7 to get started!