3 Tips for Handling Water Damage

1/30/2020 (Permalink)

Standing water in a Greeneville, TN commercial facility

3 Tips for Handling Water Damage

Your commercial property in Greeneville, TN, may be vulnerable to many different hazards. A regular maintenance schedule can help you avoid some problems. It's possible, however, that you may still get water damage if something happens. If a sudden accident occurs, there are several factors that may determine how much damage is done.

1. Respond Quickly

Getting help as soon as possible is the key to avoiding greater damage. There are three phone calls you need to make when you have broken pipes:

• Plumber to fix the pipes
  
• Water mitigation experts to repair the damage
  
• Insurance company to cover costs
  
  

The plumber can stop the leak, but you need restoration professionals to repair the water damage to walls, floors and ceiling tiles. These technicians can also compile a list of damages to assist with your insurance claim. Bringing the insurance company into the process early improves your chances of getting your claim accepted.

2. Stop Water Flow

Once you have called everyone you need to contact, you want to do what you can to stop the flow of water to the affected area. The easiest way to do this is to turn off the water main. It may interrupt water service to the rest of the building but it can simplify the water cleanup process. It may also be helpful to remove the standing water from the area if you can safely do so.

3. Document Damage

As the first person on the scene, you are in a unique position to report the extent of the damage. The best way to do this is to take pictures or video of the flooded rooms. Start a list of the items that are damaged. If they cannot be salvaged, list the replacement cost as well. Any information you can provide may prove useful when filing your claim.
Any time you have water damage in your building, you need to call for help. There are also small things you can do while waiting on help to arrive. Follow these tips to make your cleanup process smoother.