A commercial property may be left with water intrusion, exposed building materials, fallen debris, and damaged roofing after storms. Promptly responding to commercial roof storm damage repair can mean lower repair costs and can help avoid a minor issue from becoming a major business disruption. The initial hours will make recovery easier if you know what to do.
Your first priority should always be safety. Never go on the roof right after a storm. Roofing materials, structural components, or electrical hazards may have been compromised by strong winds.
Rather, check the property at a safe distance. Check for visible roofing material loss, standing water, broken skylights, damaged flashing, fallen branches, or water entering the building.
Keep employees away from the affected area if there are exposed electrical wires, significant structural problems, or large quantities of water within the building until professionals can evaluate the area.
After everyone is safe, take reasonable measures to minimize further property damage. Where water is leaking through the ceiling, place containers under the leak, if feasible. Move valuable items, furniture, equipment, and inventory safely from affected areas.
Drywall, flooring, insulation, electrical, and stored goods can be ruined by water in no time. It can also create conditions that promote the growth of mold.
Don’t try to make large repairs on the roof. Any temporary measures should be used only if it is safe to do so and poses no risk to anyone.
Take photos and videos of the impacted areas prior to cleanup or repairs. Record damaged roofing, ceiling stains, standing water, broken windows, damaged equipment, and other visible issues.
Record the time of the storm and time of damage discovery. Keep receipts for emergency services and temporary protective measures as well.
Detailed documentation can facilitate communication between the property owner and restoration professionals and insurance representatives. Avoid throwing away damaged materials until they have been properly documented and assessed, unless they present an immediate safety hazard.
Read More: Top Causes of Commercial Roof Storm Damage and How to Address Them
Commercial properties typically rely on facilities to ensure the flow of employees, customers, equipment, and inventory. Any roof leak can disrupt the operation of the day.
Avoid using or going to unsafe areas, and move employees or equipment if possible. If significant quantities of stock are affected by water, move to dry, safe areas first.
When damage is incurred to electrical systems, HVAC equipment, computer systems, or other critical systems, have these systems inspected by qualified personnel before operating.
When a commercial roof is damaged by a storm, it’s not something that can be patched up in a flash. Moisture may still be present in the building materials in the interior of the insulation, walls, and ceilings after the water has ceased to leak in the visible surface.
A professional evaluation will be able to assess the extent of damage and identify the areas in need of emergency stabilization, water extraction, drying, roof repairs, or roof replacement.
It’s particularly crucial to act quickly since moisture damage can escalate if left untreated. Professional restoration crews can also be helpful in coordinating cleanup and repairs to restore the property to normal as soon as possible.
Storm damage can cause major issues to a commercial property, but swift response can minimize the damage. Whether it’s securing the building, safeguarding assets, documenting the damage, or arranging professional restoration, every step is important. A prompt response to commercial roof storm damage can help avoid leaks and moisture becoming major structural and business losses.
If your commercial property has been damaged by a storm, you need a restoration team that can be responsive and will help prevent additional damage to your building. Fires & Water Restoration can help you determine the extent of any commercial roof storm damage, mitigating water intrusion and leading your property through the restoration process. Call us today and begin the process of restoring your commercial property.
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