Water Damage In Retail Stores

By Author: Leo Nov
Total Articles: 883
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Even without bad weather, there are several trouble spots in a retail establishment that can lead to water damage such as malfunctioning appliances and plumbing problems. For a retail business, water damage carries several risks. The store owners may have to deal with damage to the property, equipment, inventory and the personal belongings of staff.

Water damage could also mean closing shop, which equals loss of profits. At certain times of the year, such as during holidays, even temporary closure is something a retail store can ill afford. Depending on the extent of damage, the store can be closed for a few hours up to several months to allow cleanup and restoration. Without a continuity plan, closing the business for an extended period of time would lead to losing customers to competitors.

Preparedness and Education

Certainly, water damage incidents occur regardless of location, time or season. While emergencies just happen and they are never planned, planning for them is something that retail store owners should make a priority. There is no better time than now to develop an emergency response plan.

The ...
... plan should be comprehensive, identifying all risks and the appropriate solutions. Establish partnerships with emergency responders, including water damage cleanup and restoration specialists. Practice the emergency response plan and record outcomes, updating the plan as necessary.

It is also part of being prepared to have a list of emergency contacts, which may be needed during an emergency. The staff should be familiar with the phone numbers and the list should be posted at a visible location in the store.

If there is potential flooding, here are some recommended actions that can be taken by retail businesses to help reduce disruption in their operation:

" Back up records and computer files. Place computer equipment above ground or above flood levels or any place that is unlikely to be affected by floodwater.
" Transfer inventory items to a higher or an off-site location.
" Move hazardous materials to higher floor level or remove from the facility.
" Keep the floors of the store clean.
" If flooding is impending, turn off all power supply to the store.

To reduce the damaging effects of water leaks and other forms of water intrusion aside from weather-related floods, retail stores should be inspected regularly to make sure the building and other elements in and around it are in good condition such as appliances like air conditioners, the plumbing system, vents, windows, doors, roofs and others. The use of a water leak alert system would also be a good idea.

Water Damage Recovery

Wait until the store has a safe supply of water and functioning waste disposal system before returning. Do not re-enter the establishment if the structure has signs of damage. When re-entering the store, be aware of trapped gas and do not use cigarette lighters, matches or any other device with open flames as a source of light. Use flashlights instead. Have a qualified electrician inspect the electrical system first before turning the power on.

When a store becomes water damaged, further damage can be prevented by taking appropriate action once it has been deemed safe to enter the area. Standing water must be removed immediately, along with wet materials. Other things store owners can do to mitigate damage is to board up broken windows and cover a damaged roof with waterproof sheeting.

Consult with water damage restoration professional for quick and thorough cleanup of the store. Water damage cleanup can be a tiring task, not to mention hazardous, especially if there are sewage or chemicals that were mixed with the water. To address the damage properly, quickly and safely, do call for professional assistance.
Leo Nov is an editorial staff member of RestorationSOS.com, a leading service provider for fire and water damage cleanups. To learn more about commercial water damage services and water extraction, visit RestorationSOS.com