Water damage is one of the most common and costly problems faced by commercial building owners and managers. According to the Insurance Information Institute, water damage claims accounted for more than one-third of all commercial property insurance claims in 2017, and the average cost of a water damage claim was more than $50,000.
Water damage can occur due to a variety of causes, including storms, broken pipes, leaks, and flooding. It can also be the result of faulty or outdated plumbing, HVAC, or fire suppression systems. Whatever the cause, water damage can have a devastating impact on a commercial building, its contents, and its occupants.
The first step in addressing water damage is to identify the source of the problem and stop the water from flowing. This may require shutting off the water supply to the building, repairing a broken pipe, or sealing a leak. Once the water has been stopped, the next step is to remove the water that has already entered the building. This can be done with a wet/dry vacuum, pumps, or by extracting the water with a water extraction machine.
Once the water has been removed, the next step is to dry the affected areas. This can be done with a combination of fans, dehumidifiers, and air movers. The goal is to get the affected areas as dry as possible as quickly as possible to prevent mold growth.
Once the affected areas are dry, the next step is to clean and disinfect them. This is important to prevent the growth of mold and bacteria. Any porous materials that have been wet, such as carpeting, drywall, and insulation, will need to be removed and replaced.
The last step is to repair any damage that has been done. This may include replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpeting.
Addressing water damage in a timely and effective manner is critical to minimizing the cost and disruption to your business. If you have experienced water damage, contact a professional restoration company to assess the damage and develop a plan to restore your property.
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