Commercial Storm Preparedness: 9 Useful Tips For Properties

5/27/2024 (Permalink)

SERVPRO professionals can help you avoid storm damage!

Expert insights and practical steps to safeguard your commercial property from storm-related damage.

Storms can be unpredictable and devastating, posing significant threats to commercial properties. From severe wind damage to flooding, storms can disrupt business operations and cause extensive property damage. Business owners must prepare for storms to minimize damage and recover quickly. 

This blog post will explore the importance of commercial storm preparedness, offer practical tips for protecting your business, and highlight how SERVPRO® expertise can be invaluable in restoring properties affected by severe weather.

Why is commercial storm preparedness important?

Commercial storm preparedness is essential for several reasons:

• Minimizes Damage: Proper preparation can significantly reduce the damage caused by storms, protecting your property and assets.
• Ensures Business Continuity: Preparing helps your business continue operations or resume quickly after a storm.
• Protects Employees and Customers: Storm preparedness measures help keep everyone safe during severe weather events.
• Reduces Financial Impact: Effective preparedness can lower repair and restoration costs, protecting your bottom line.

Common causes of storm damage to commercial properties

Storm damage can result from various factors, including:

• High Winds: Strong winds can cause structural damage, break windows, and scatter debris.
• Heavy Rainfall: Intense rainfall can lead to flooding, damaging the interior and foundation of the building.
• Hail: Hail can dent roofs, break windows, and damage exterior surfaces.
• Lightning: Lightning strikes can cause fires and electrical surges, damaging equipment and infrastructure.
• Falling Trees and Debris: Storms can cause trees and large branches to fall, resulting in significant damage.

9 tips to prepare your commercial property for storms

Preparing your commercial property for storms involves proactive measures and regular maintenance. Here are some practical steps to safeguard your business:

Conduct a Risk Assessment

Perform a thorough risk assessment to identify vulnerabilities in your property. Evaluate the potential impact of different types of storms.

Create an Emergency Plan

Develop a comprehensive emergency plan that includes evacuation routes, communication protocols, and employee roles and responsibilities. Ensure all staff members are familiar with the plan and conduct regular drills.

Install Storm-Resistant Features

Invest in storm-resistant windows, doors, and roofing materials. These features can provide additional protection against high winds and flying debris.

Secure Outdoor Items

Bring in or secure outdoor furniture, equipment, and signage to prevent them from becoming projectiles during a storm. Trim trees and remove dead branches to reduce the risk of falling debris.

Maintain Proper Drainage

Ensure that your property’s drainage system is functioning correctly. Clean gutters and downspouts regularly to prevent water buildup and reduce the risk of flooding.

Backup Important Data

Protect your business data by regularly backing up all critical information. Use cloud storage or off-site backups to ensure data is safe, even if your physical location is damaged.

Review Insurance Coverage

Review your insurance policies to ensure adequate coverage for storm-related damage. Consider additional coverage options for specific risks, such as flooding or business interruption.

Install Surge Protectors

Install surge protectors and rods to protect your electrical systems and equipment from lightning strikes and power surges.

Develop a Continuity Plan

Create a business continuity plan that outlines how your business will operate during and after a storm. Include alternative work arrangements, supply chain management, and customer communication strategies.

A recent storm preparedness success story in Atlanta, Georgia

Last year, SERVPRO was called to assist with severe storm damage in Atlanta, Georgia. The property had been extensively damaged, and a crucial part of the local business community faced significant challenges, including broken windows, roof damage, and interior flooding. This situation highlights the importance of storm preparedness and the effectiveness of SERVPRO’s professional restoration services.

Upon receiving the call, our SERVPRO team quickly mobilized to assess the damage and develop a comprehensive restoration plan. The commercial property required immediate attention to prevent further damage and ensure business continuity. Our action plan included:

1. Emergency Board-Up and Tarping: We promptly boarded broken windows and applied tarps to the damaged roof to prevent additional water intrusion.
2. Water Extraction and Drying: Our team used advanced water extraction equipment to remove standing water and deployed industrial-grade dehumidifiers to dry the affected areas thoroughly.
3. Structural Repairs: We conducted necessary structural repairs to restore the building’s integrity, including replacing damaged windows and repairing the roof.
4. Content Restoration: We carefully cleaned and restored salvageable items, including office equipment, furniture, and essential documents.
5. Mold Prevention: Our team implemented measures to prevent mold growth, including thorough drying and antimicrobial treatments.
6. Business Continuity Support: We worked closely with the business owners to develop a continuity plan, allowing them to resume operations as quickly as possible.

Our swift response and expert solutions addressed the immediate damage and helped the business quickly get back on its feet.

What should you do when a storm damages your commercial property?

Immediate action is crucial when dealing with storm damage to your commercial property. Start by ensuring the safety of all employees and customers. Contact a professional restoration team, like SERVPRO, for a thorough assessment and prompt restoration services. While waiting for professional help, secure the property to prevent further damage and document the damage for insurance purposes.

Wrapping up

SERVPRO’s reputation in storm damage restoration is built on swift response, advanced technology, and skilled professionals. We understand the complexities of storm damage and the critical role of preparedness in protecting your business. Our team is trained to handle complex scenarios, ensuring efficient and effective restoration.

SERVPRO for storm damage restoration offers more than just repair services; it provides peace of mind and long-term protection for your business. Our quick response, cutting-edge techniques, and customer-centric approach make us a trusted ally in navigating the challenges of storm damage. With preparation and the support of SERVPRO professionals, your business can weather any storm and emerge stronger on the other side.

Following these tips and relying on professional expertise can prepare your commercial property for storms, ensuring a safe and resilient business environment. Whether you are dealing with the aftermath of a severe storm or planning, SERVPRO is ready to help with comprehensive storm preparedness and restoration services.