FLOOD DAMAGE PREVENTION TIPS FOR YOUR BUSINESS

5/1/2019 (Permalink)

No business owner wants to see a loss happen because of flood damages, especially when they could have been prevented. There are the floods that happen because of bad weather, and then there are the floods that come about due to equipment failure or negligence. Here are a few flood damage prevention tips for you that will help you avoid the worst of both.

All appliances have a limited lifespan, so it’s important to check your refrigerators, dishwashers, water heaters, HVAC units, and bathroom fixtures for any signs of failure. Flooding in these areas will create huge issues for you, especially if they happen over the weekend! Look for:

• The sound of running water
• Unpleasant odors in floors, walls, or drains
• Low water pressure
• Mold growing around appliance or fixtures
• Worn out hoses

If leaks are left untreated, they can lead to mold growth, stains, and floor and wall damages. Address any leaks immediately - this is one of the best flood damage prevention tips we can give you!

Watching your water bill is another way to prevent problems. If it goes up considerably for no apparent reason, you probably have a leak somewhere. You can also read your water meter to maintain a check on it.

Maintaining roofs, gutters, and exterior windows and doors will go a long way towards keeping your business safe from the elements and flooding that can happen during heavy rains. Any drainage system on your property will need to be properly cared for, too, with debris and dirt clogging the system being removed regularly in case of heavy water. A backed up drainage system can be a huge flooding culprit.  

If you are due for some landscaping, make sure any new large shrubs or trees are planted in places where they won’t interfere with pipelines, and remove those that are already in the danger zone. Root systems can easily break apart piping and create a flooding event. Choose those plants and trees that don’t have aggressive root systems, just to be safe.

When you are dealing with flood damages, the SERVPRO of Belle Meade / West Nashville team is always here to help, 24/7. We are water and fire damage specialists, and we have years of experience with mold remediation and prevention, as well.