What Leads to Commercial Damage? | SERVPRO® of New Center/Highland Park

Business owners lead a busy lifestyle. They barely get any days off because running a business requires continuous management and effort. Because business owners have so much to do in a single day, it might be difficult to anticipate an unexpected emergency occurring in their workplace.

But every year, unforeseen disasters like this devastate workplaces. Natural disasters have been known to cause significant damage to business facilities, with some never reopening after being shut down.

The cost of natural disasters only continues to rise in the United States. Over the last five years, the NCEI reported an annual average of $153 billion worth of damage as a result of natural disasters.

Every year, weather events such as severe storms, flooding and tornadoes hit Highland Park. Multiple businesses nearby were ruined as a result of flooding in 2021. Equipment within these facilities like ingredients, inventory and kitchen appliances were destroyed by floodwater.

This reminds us that it’s important to always be prepared for the chance of potential damage. Learn about the types of damage that might occur in the workplace to better prepare your business for an unforeseen disaster:

Water Damage

Water and moisture damage is widespread in businesses. Water can cause damage to your commercial building in a variety of ways, including broken equipment, corroded pipes and faulty heating systems.

Water damage can occur due to a variety of sources, including your facility’s appliances, restrooms and kitchen. Leaks may seem inconsequential, but even a minor leak can result in costly water damage. Examine your building for leaks by looking for wet spots, stains or musty odors.

Flooding is another major cause of commercial water damage. When flash floods seep inside your business, they can inflict costly damage by destroying important records, merchandise and work appliances. Knowing the flood risk in the area where your business is located can help you decide what steps to take.

Inspect your building for any weak points where floodwater could enter. Seal any cracks or gaps through which water can enter, and use natural landscaping around your building to collect any runoff water.

You could also relocate any expensive equipment, valuable records or inventory to a safer location to avoid water damage.

Storm Damage

Every year, commercial properties suffer the repercussions of extreme weather. Strong winds, tornadoes and hail do significant damage to companies by ripping off roofs, demolishing infrastructure and destroying any valuables within. Even minor storms can cause problems due to flood damage and downed trees.

During severe storms, strong winds can reach speeds up to over 100 mph. These storms produce a 100-mile-long damage path, blowing out windows and ripping buildings apart.

Keep up to date with your local weather conditions to protect your business from these severe storms and take preventive steps in advance.

By sealing windows and doors and installing impact-resistant shutters, you can lessen the threat of storm damage. Protect your files and back up any vital data before a storm. Move any costly equipment and inventory in a secure location.

Know Who to Call

Commercial damage is inevitable in some cases, but there are steps you can take to protect your business from costly loss. Disaster preparedness is one approach to ensure that your business survives the storm with minimal damage.

Our crew can respond to any disaster no matter the time of day. Our 24-hour availability provides a quick response, allowing us to evaluate any damage and begin the restoration process for your establishment.

If you have experienced damage to your business or want to learn more about our commercial damage restoration services, contact us today. We’re here to act fast, ²⁴⁄₇.