What To Expect After Commercial Storm Damage

10/16/2018 (Permalink)

Cleaning up water damage in a Cherokee,TN building

Natural disasters can strike at any time in Big Cherokee, TN, with flooding being the most common. For business owners, first know how keep safe after a flood. Second, know the steps for remediating water damage at your property. From tear out of wet materials to other aspects of storm restoration, read below for what to do in the aftermath.

After a Storm: Staying Safe

Before considering the damage to your property, make sure that you are safe. Consider the following tips after flooding recedes:

• Wait for local authorities to announce the presence of non-hazardous conditions before you return to check on your property.
• Before entering the building, shut off the main power supply to avoid electrical shock. If you are unable to do so, wait until professionals arrive to assess the damage.
• Do not touch or ingest flood water. Storm waters are considered “black water” and are contaminated with bacteria, microorganisms and viruses.

After a Storm: Restoring Your Commercial Property

Start the storm restoration process as soon as possible to avoid secondary damage, such as mold, from occurring. Water restoration specialists typically arrive to assess the damage within hours of your call. Restoration involves some or all of the following steps depending on the amount of damage:

• Excess water and debris are extracted using professional grade vacuums and pumps.
• Since storm water is contaminated, tear out of wet materials is often necessary. This includes porous items such as drywall and carpet padding.
• The structure and contents are thoroughly dried. Remaining moisture is removed with industrial dryers and dehumidifiers.
• Impacted areas are cleaned and sanitized. Air filtration devices are used to remove airborne bacteria and viruses.
• Building structures and inventory are repaired and restored, as necessary.

After a storm in Big Cherokee, TN, consider your own safety first. Once it is advisable to return to your commercial property, contact your insurance agent and a water restoration professional. Specialists assess the water damage and determine the course, from tear out of wet materials to restoration, which can return your business to pre-flood condition.